Cultural competence training of dieticians: development and preliminary evaluation

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Education
• Cultural Competence Training
• Dietetics

Background:

• Cultural competence training is crucial for healthcare providers to address bias and discrimination.
• Dieticians in the Netherlands currently lack formal cultural competence training.
• This study addresses the need for culturally sensitive dietary care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the pilot implementation of a cultural competence training program for dieticians.
• To conduct a preliminary evaluation of the training's effectiveness and feasibility.

Main Methods:

• A training program was developed using a cultural competence framework and stakeholder interviews.
• The pilot involved 8 dieticians using mixed methods: questionnaires and consultation observations.
• Training incorporated didactic, experiential methods, and communication exercises with actors.

Main Results:

• Dieticians reported positive experiences, finding the training valuable and educational.
• Participants showed increased self-perceived cultural competence and improved attitudes.
• Consultation observations indicated increased use of teach-back and discussion of treatment options.

Conclusions:

• The cultural competence training was well-appreciated and showed potential for improving cultural competence in dieticians.
• A mixed-method evaluation approach combining self-assessment and observation was effective.
• The positive outcomes support broader implementation of this training for dieticians.