Designing culturally competent interventions based on evidence and research

Abstract

The final stage in implementing culturally competent healthcare is selecting those interventions that are grounded in evidence generated by research that has shown positive patient outcomes. Evidence-based practice (EBP) programs require staff educated in the principles of EBP, mentors to guide the process, library and time resources, and administrative support. Both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies can be used to study cultural phenomena and health behaviors, as well as to test the efficacy of interventions that have improved patient outcomes and decreased health disparities. Studies should also measure the impact of culturally specific interventions on healthcare organizations and the community since these are programs can influence the fiscal feasibility and sustainability of these interventions. Healthcare systems with limited personnel and financial assets may not have the resources to develop an extensive EBP or research program but could employ site-specific quality improvement (QI) projects or program evaluations to determine whether their culturally competent interventions improve outcomes for their patient populations. Three detailed case studies are provided to illustrate how this guideline is implemented in their culture-specific populations.