Cultural Competences Gained Through an Education Program as Ethnic Patient Coordinator: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Introduction: Studies have shown that health care professionals lack cultural knowledge and cultural competences in the care of patients with a minority background. The aim of this study was to explore whether a cultural teaching program, the so-called ethnic patient coordinator program, had an impact on health professionals’ self-perceived clinical competences in the encounter with the minority patient. Methodology: The study was designed as a qualitative study using participant observation and semistructured interviews with a practice-led research approach. In total, 30 health professionals participated in the program. Results/Discussion: The coordinators described that they had learned to focus systematically on reducing language barriers and to overcome prejudices. Their new competences not only had a direct influence on patient-related practical skills but also affected the practice culture and their colleagues’ approach to vulnerable patients with a minority background. Conclusion/Implication: The presence of an ethnic patient coordinator team may give rise to a more migrant-friendly and culturally competent hospital.