Interdisciplinary Program Designed to Prepare Student Health Professionals for the Cultural Aspects Affecting Medical Service Develivery in Rural Areas

Authors

Denise G. Bender, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center
Brett R. Braziel, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center

Abstract

Minorities are significantly underrepresented in the medical professions as compared to the US population as a whole. This discrepancy highlights the need to prepare students to practice in a culturally competent manner. This is especially true for those students who plan to practice in rural areas. Rural practice requires not only the skill of cultural competence, but also the ability to work with other disciplines as part of a team, due to the shortage of health professionals. This article outlines a month-long clinical rotation developed by the health professions programs in Oklahoma and funded through a grant to Oklahoma’s Area Health Education Centers. This funded program combined mentoring, clinical experience, and didactic information on cultural awareness to prepare students to work together to provide care for members of the Choctaw Nation.

DOI

10.46743/1540-580X/2004.1055

Recommended Citation

Bender DG, Braziel BR. Interdisciplinary Program Designed to Prepare Student Health Professionals for the Cultural Aspects Affecting Medical Service Develivery in Rural Areas. The Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice. 2004 Oct 01;2(4), Article 5.