Considering culture, complementary medicine, and spirituality in pediatrics

Whether or not it is apparent, cultural and spiritual diversity exist in many clinical encounters, both with patients and with colleagues. These issues may cloud other concerns, contribute to inadequate or misleading communication, and affect lifestyle and therapeutic choices. Given the rapid rise in complementary therapies and the growing diversity in North America, the challenges of providing sensitive, compassionate, comprehensive care are compounded. Reflecting on the ways cultural backgrounds, religious beliefs and complementary medicine affect physicians, colleagues and patients may enrich, clarify, deepen, and improve the effectiveness of our clinical practice. The cases presented here offer an opportunity for role playing and reflection to support this process.