Integrating Literacy, Culture, and Language to Improve Health Care Quality for Diverse Populations
Authors: Andrulis, Dennis P.; Brach, Cindy
Source: American Journal of Health Behavior, Volume 31, Supplement 1, August 2007 , pp. S122-S133(12)
Publisher: PNG Publications
Abstract:
Objective: To understand the interrelationship of literacy, culture, and language and the importance of addressing their intersection.Methods: Health literacy, cultural competence, and linguistic competence strategies to quality improvement were analyzed.Results: Strategies to improve health literacy for low-literate individuals are distinct from strategies for culturally diverse and individuals with limited English proficiency (LEP). The lack of integration results in health care that is unresponsive to some vulnerable groups' needs. A vision for integrated care is presented.Conclusion: Clinicians, the health care team, and health care organizations have important roles to play in addressing challenges related to literacy, culture, and language.Keywords: communication; cultural competence; health literacy; language barriers; literacy; linguistic competence; minority health; quality improvement
Document Type: Research article
Publication date: 2007-08-01
- The American Journal of Health Behavior seeks to improve the quality of life through multidisciplinary health efforts in fostering a better understanding of the multidimensional nature of both individuals and social systems as they relate to health behaviors.
The Journal aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the impact of personal attributes, personality characteristics, behavior patterns, social structure, and processes on health maintenance, health restoration, and health improvement; to disseminate knowledge of holistic, multidisciplinary approaches to designing and implementing effective health programs; and to showcase health behavior analysis skills that have been proven to affect health improvement and recovery. - Editorial Board
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- In this Subject: Medicine (General) , Public Health , Psychology/Psychiatry
- By this author: Andrulis, Dennis P. ; Brach, Cindy

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