Abstract

RODRIGUEZ-MARTIN, Beatriz. Challenges and opportunities of cultural contact situations in the area of health care. Index Enferm [online]. 2015, vol.24, n.4, pp.227-231. ISSN 1699-5988.  https://dx.doi.org/10.4321/S1132-12962015000300008.

The territorial co-existence of different ways of understanding health-disease process is both a challenge and an opportunity for professionals and health-service managers. Although we know that intercultural health strategies contributing to stamp out health inequities, enable effective utilization of all levels of health care and promote therapeutic relationships based on mutual understanding and reciprocal exchange, its incorrect application is not without undesirable effects. This study summarized and analyzed previous experiences in order to provide the tools that help achieve high-quality care in cultural contact situations. The care of culturally diverse population requires the active participation of all interested stakeholders, to tailor interventions, the on-going training in cultural competence of health professionals, the effective integration of all levels of health care and knowledge and respect for others' values, beliefs and autonomy.

Keywords : Cultural Competency; Intercultural Health; Nursing Care.