Religion in the Doctor-Patient Relationship: Cultural Competence and Cultural Humility

Religion has a great impact on the medical decisions of many people, especially the most devout. The intent of this thesis is to explore the role of religion in the doctor-patient relationship, specifically through the case study of the serpent-handlers. This religious sect is found primarily in the Appalachian Mountains and holds religious beliefs that affect their utilization of the medical system. I examine how religious and cultural issues are currently dealt with, through cultural competence. I identify several problems with this approach and suggest an alternative: cultural humility. Through acceptance of the practice of cultural humility, medical providers could better care for patients with diverse religious views.

Grantor dc:publisher

Wake Forest University

Year dc:date.issued

2014

Author dc:creator

• Alms, Rebecca

• cultural competence

Language dc:language.iso

en

Handle dc:identifier.uri

http://hdl.handle.net/10339/39251

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:wakespace.lib.wfu.edu:10339/39251