The L.E.A.R.N. and R.E.S.P.E.C.T. Models of Cross–Cultural Communication
The L.E.A.R.N. Model of Cross–Cultural Communication
Listen with sympathy and understanding to the patient's perception of the problem
Explain your perceptions of the problem
Acknowledge and discuss the differences and similarities
Recommend treatment
Negotiate agreement
Source: Berlin, E. & Fowkes, W.A.(1983). A teaching framework for cross-cultural health care. Western Journal of Medicine, 139:934–938. Available from: http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/picrender.fcgi?artid=1011028&blobtype=pdf
The R.E.S.P.E.C.T Model of Cross–Cultural Communication
Rapport
Connect on a social level
Seek the patient's point of view
Consciously attempt to suspend judgment
Recognize and avoid making assumptions
Empathy
Remember that the patient has come to you for help
Seek out and understand the patient's rationale for his or her behaviors or illness
Verbally acknowledge and legitimize the patient's feelings
Support
Ask about and try to understand barriers to care and compliance
Help the patient overcome barriers
Involve family members if appropriate
Reassure the patient you are and will be available to help
Partnership
Be flexible with regard to issues of control
Negotiate roles when necessary
Stress that you will be working together to address medical problems
Explanations
Check often for understanding
Use verbal clarification techniques
Cultural Competence
Respect the patient and his or her culture and beliefs
Understand that the patient's view of you may be identified by ethnic or cultural stereotypes
Be aware of your own biases and preconceptions
Know your limitations in addressing medical issues across cultures
Understand your personal style and recognize when it may not be working with a given patient
Trust
Self–disclosure may be an issue for some patients who are not accustomed to Western medical approaches
Take the necessary time and consciously work to establish trust
Source: Welch, M. (1998). Enhancing awareness and improving cultural competence in health care. A partnership guide for teaching diversity and cross-cultural concepts in heath professional training. San Francisco: University of California at San Francisco.