Cultural competency is an evolving process of interrelated cultural and health care factors. In previous weeks, we explored various issues of health disparities and characteristics that affect the ability to develop a culturally competent workforce.

In the Pérez and Luquis text (p. 175), the authors introduce the National Center for Cultural Competence definition of what organizations and individuals must have in order for cultural competency to exist. Their profile includes "(1) value diversity, (2) conduct self-assessments, (3) manage the dynamics of difference, (4) acquire and institutionalize cultural knowledge, and (5) adapt to the diversity and cultural contexts of the communities they serve."

Consider the organization and cultural group you selected for your Cultural Competence Development Plan, and:

Identify and discuss at least two issues for each of the five points above.

Describe two common barriers to cultural competence and make recommendations for improvement.

Response Guidelines

Read the posts of your peers and respond to at least two. Develop and present follow-up questions or supporting statements that may help clarify their perspectives.