Special Considerations for Working with Cubans in Integrated Care: Intergenerational Perspectives on Life-Course Health Promotion

Abstract

This chapter has brought a transdisciplinary perspective drawing across health, mental health, and cultural studies literatures to guide work with Cuban American patients in integrative care. Recognizing the "Geopolitics of the Heart" characterizing Cuban American experience, I have reviewed some of the sociopolitical and demographic contexts shaping Cuban America, including the gradual transformation of a divided community into a more fluid, translational one. Cuban American families in the U.S. have demonstrated a great deal of economic and educational success and political influence, building on granted immigration advantages to create residential enclaves and family continuity promoting wellness and resilience. The stories of Cuban American families continue to change, and this chapter recommends careful assessment of person- and family-centered health status from a life course perspective, of within-family differences in acculturation and political affiliations, and clinician reflexivity in assessing personal and professional attitudes and values as they impact patient care. These recommendations, emerging from within the care of Cuban American families, will increase clinician cultural and contextual sensitivity in work with other Latino and other immigrant fall. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2017 APA, all rights reserved)