In this MD Newsline exclusive interview with Krystal Preston, PharmD, we discuss how to provide culturally sensitive care and overcome language barriers.
MD Newsline:
How have you been able to implement culturally sensitive care in your work?
Krystal Preston, PharmD:
“Having experienced disparities in care as a patient, I’ve learned how to implement culturally sensitive care. I try to provide the same care to my patients as if I were caring for a family member. Also, I work in the community where I live, which has helped me gain my patients’ trust in a unique way. Having that kind of relationship with my patients has helped me to deliver culturally sensitive care.
And in these ways, representation matters and can help minimize gaps in care. Often, patients may feel a little more comfortable if they see a provider that can identify with what they are going through.
Lastly, I try to treat people the way I would like to be treated, not just in terms of patient care, but in my everyday acts.”
MD Newsline:
How do you deal with language barriers so that they don’t impede your ability to deliver quality care?
Krystal Preston, PharmD:
“I haven’t had many instances where language barriers existed or impeded my ability to provide patient care. When treating non-English speaking patients, I’ve always been able to work with a translator, and often those patients had a caregiver with them who could translate as well.
Additionally, I try to make sure that I use language that is simple enough for my patients to understand me and that is appropriate for their level of health literacy. I also try to make sure that I’m actively listening to them, and I ask them to repeat what I told them to make sure they understand me.”
Responses have been condensed and lightly edited.
