Promoting intercultural competencies in the healthcare sector through further education and training

Abstract

Acceptance of cultural diversity and the recognition and appreciation of facets of “otherness” such as gender, age, occupational or disease-related group, religion, sociocultural background, and migration history are basic requirements for adequate communication and interaction in healthcare. The term intercultural competence is multidimensional and includes a range of qualities and skills with emotional and cognitive elements with influence on the behavioral level. In the present paper, we discuss the importance of intercultural competence for the healthcare system and which aspects of the intercultural communication are particularly relevant for culturally sensitive medical care. Additionally, we report on the implementation of an interprofessional program and continuing education concept for clinical practice: Interprofessional and Intercultural Work in Medicine, Nursing and Social Services (IPIKA). The basis of the specific approaches to improving intercultural competence should be the systematic education and training of basic communication skills. This concerns almost all curricula for the medical professions. It is important to emphasize that intercultural competence is a core and cross-sectional topic for all healthcare providers.