Asking for a Friend: How Can I Improve Cultural Competency in My Dental Office?
Mastering the four Cs of cultural diversity—communication, compassion, capacity, and coordination—empowers dental professionals to deliver more inclusive, respectful, and effective care. By embracing cultural competence and breaking down language barriers, practices can build stronger patient relationships and improve overall health outcomes.
Erika Lauren Serrano, RDH
The four Cs of cultural diversity and competency
You’re in the morning huddle and are told, “Mr. X doesn’t speak English.” “OK, what language does he speak?” No one knows. Yikes. Hygienists and dental professionals must be culturally competent providers to enhance the quality of care to the patient and community; part of this is making an effort to address language barriers. I'll often see in the side notes that a patient “doesn’t speak English” or “doesn’t speak English well,” but it’s not followed up with their preferred language. Failing to secure this information is an example of an office lacking cultural competency...
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Erika Lauren Serrano, RDH
The four Cs of cultural diversity and competency
You’re in the morning huddle and are told, “Mr. X doesn’t speak English.” “OK, what language does he speak?” No one knows. Yikes. Hygienists and dental professionals must be culturally competent providers to enhance the quality of care to the patient and community; part of this is making an effort to address language barriers. I'll often see in the side notes that a patient “doesn’t speak English” or “doesn’t speak English well,” but it’s not followed up with their preferred language. Failing to secure this information is an example of an office lacking cultural competency...
Click Here to Read More