Improving communication in a diverse healthcare environment

Ethnic and racial diversity enriches the healthcare environment just as it enriches the nation. But diversity in the healthcare environment also can cause communication difficulties that impede effective service delivery. Many communication difficulties stem from differences in cultural values, languages, and points of view, and usually they can be overcome by understanding their source and applying techniques to resolve them. Techniques that can be used to help resolve communication difficulties include: listening carefully to what is said, repeating messages that are not readily understood, accepting responsibility for a lack of understanding, phrasing questions in different ways, and creating a relaxed atmosphere.