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underserved
Ethnic and racial minorities will comprise almost 90 percent of the total growth in the U.S. population between 1995-20501, meaning that physicians will likely
treat an increasing number of culturally diverse patients. Masspro and its partners are working with physician offices to equip them with the knowledge and tools
necessary to effectively care for their changing patient panels.
Culturally appropriate care is not only the right way to practice, it’s also associated with higher patient satisfaction, improved patient compliance,
better health outcomes, and lower health care costs. In addition, this type of care can possibly create financial returns, “On the business side, a culturally
competent practice may generate greater market share and increased revenues.”2
According to the National Center for Cultural Competence, practicing culturally appropriate care
can also help “decrease the likelihood of liability/malpractice claims.” A lack of awareness regarding cultural differences could result in liability
under tort principles, including damages as a result of treatment in the absence of informed consent.
Masspro will work with a select group of physicians and their office staff to complete the Culturally and Linguistically Appropriate Services (CLAS) standards,
developed by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Minority Health (OMH). The standards are designed to enhance knowledge in three key areas:
Culturally competent care (skill development, effective communication) Language access services (providing access to services, working with an interpreter) Organizational supports (the role of the patient’s environment, building community partnerships)
Masspro’s broader statewide effort focuses on improving care in the clinical areas of diabetes, mammography, and adult immunization. Working with the
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, the Boston Public Health Commission, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, and the Massachusetts League of
Community Health Centers, we exchange information and promote best practices to improve the rates at which underserved patients receive screening and care management
services related to diabetes, mammography, and adult immunization.
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