A Guide to Information in Section A

We recognize that every patient encounter is unique. Every patient is different in age, sex, ethnicity, religion or sexual preference and will bring to the medical encounter their unique perspectives and experiences. This factor will always impact communication, compliance and health care outcomes.

The suggestions presented here are intended to help build sensitivity to differences and styles, minimize patient-provider and patient-office staff miscommunication, and foster an environment that is non-threatening and comfortable to the patient.

This information may assist you to:
  • Improve health care delivery and outcomes
  • Decrease repeat visits
  • Decrease unnecessary lab tests
  • Increase adherence
  • Avoid Civil Rights Act violations
  • Identify opportunities to improve office staff cultural and linguistic competency
The following materials are available in this section:

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Working with Diverse Patients: Tips for Successful Patient Encounters
A one-page tip sheet designed to help providers enhance their patient communication skills.
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Partnering with Diverse Patients: Tips for Office Staff to Enhance Communication
A one-page tip sheet designed to help office staff enhance their patient communication skills.
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Non-verbal Communication and Patient Care
A two-page overview of the impact of non-verbal communication on patient-provider relations and communication.
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“Diverse”: A Mnemonic for Patient Encounters
A mnemonic to help you individualize care based on cultural/diversity aspects.
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Tips for Identifying and Addressing Health Literacy Issues
A two-page handout elaborating on the signs of low health literacy and how to address them.
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Interview Guide for Hiring Office/Clinic Staff with Diversity Awareness
A list of interview questions to help determine if a job candidate is likely to work well with individuals of diverse backgrounds.