Medicine and Health Sciences Commons^™

Cultural Diversity In The Practice Of Physical Therapy: A Review Of The Literature, James M. Mckivigan

College of Health & Human Services (TUN) Publications and Research

Background: Cultural competence is a term that encompasses one’s capacity for understanding, communication, and effective interactions with individuals across the cultural spectrum. Recognition of these principles and practical training focused on relevant skills and abilities are needed to prevent discriminatory practices based on patient age, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, race, religion, gender identification, and sexual orientation. A culturally competent physical therapist will be able to use these skills and abilities to promote effective communication with all patients and remove barriers to obtaining appropriate health care.

Methods: Toward this end, this study includes a review of the recent literature and focuses on …