Primary Care and Cross-Cultural Care

Cross-cultural care is health care that intentionally considers individuals and populations within their cultural contexts. Ensuring that the medical system can care for all people across all cultures is a fundamental aspect of public health. This article describes key ideas and constructs relevant to cross-cultural care and explores how primary care clinicians can contribute to improved patient and public health. Utilizing skills and concepts from medical anthropology, primary care clinicians can provide cross-cultural care that improves the health of patients and populations in all communities.