Providing Culturally Responsive Care - Skills for Today's Healthcare Professionals

 In this course, we will explore the concept of culturally responsive care and examine how patients’ cultural backgrounds, lived experiences, and societal influences can shape healthcare interactions and outcomes. Participants will gain insight into the ways culture and social determinants affect perceptions of health, access to care, and the overall patient experience. We will also discuss how healthcare professionals can use intentional, patient-centered communication strategies to foster trust, reduce disparities, and promote equitable health outcomes for all individuals and communities they serve. In addition, we will examine the potential impact of cognitive shortcuts on clinical decision-making and patient care. The course will conclude with a few case studies that bring these concepts together, providing participants with opportunities to apply their knowledge and skills to clinical scenarios. Through these exercises, learners will strengthen their ability to deliver culturally responsive, equitable, and effective care in diverse healthcare settings.

Objectives:

• Explain the role of culturally responsive care in improving patient experiences, outcomes, and health equity.
• Identify factors that influence cross-cultural healthcare interactions and patient engagement.
• Apply practical communication strategies to provide respectful, culturally responsive care in everyday practice.

Continuing education credits available: Nursing Home Administrator and Social Worker

Presenter: Sarah Duncan, RN Clinical Educator/Chair of Health Equity and Experience Council, Sanford Health 

Presented: August 4, 2026