Diversity and cultural competence in research

摘要

The notion of cultural competence (CC) is well documented in health care in general, and palliative care in particular. Definitions of cultural competence have reflected contexts of health care delivery, with specific emphasis on health professionals' (HPs') relationships and interactions with patients. CC became necessary in health care to reflect the diversity of patients' backgrounds and needs, instigating a move away from a 'one size fits all' approach to care. CC therefore acted as a catalyst to increasing awareness of the individuality of the patients for whom HPs care. However, despite these changes, cultural competence is often overlooked when considering research design and methodology. Research that is culturally competent can yield results that improve the health status of the specific population under study. Evidence from Marshall (2008) suggested that, in the last decade, health care research has started to make links between the culture of the participants and the research methods used. Cultural differences require that researchers understand the way social etiquette and cultural beliefs influence participants' behaviour and health beliefs. Such understanding may be further enhanced by researchers who also possess open expression and utilisation of culturally competent research designs, methods and interpretation of findings.