An explanation of the difficulties created by language barriers in the medical encounter between patients and health care professionals. Interpreters, while necessary, may also affect the patient physician relationship.
The Columbia University Community Pediatrics Program incorporates cultural competency training into its curricula by requiring residents to participate in community service programs.
Physicians should be aware of the level of emotional distress and suffering that a patient is experiencing as a result of his or her illness and incorporate that into the patient's treatment plan.