Approaching death in multicultural Australia

Culture is a system of shared ideas, concepts, rules and meanings that underlies the way we live--and approach death. Cultural diversity refers to more than ethnic diversity: age, gender, sexual preference, capabilities, education, place of residence, and occupation (including the health professions) contribute to diversity of culture. Clinical decision making involves values and ethical principles, which are influenced by culture--not only of the patient but also of the carers and health professionals. Care of patients approaching death involves the whole healthcare system--but may need, from time to time, palliative care specialist input, including specialised cultural competence. Education and training of palliative medicine specialists in Australia needs to include a focus on cultural competence.