part 1
Respond to the following in a minimum of 175 words:
- Is it immoral or insensitive to set evidence-based medical practice over other cultural medical beliefs?
- Fadiman compares the Hmong to a visual perception puzzle (p. 237). Do you agree or disagree with her metaphor? Explain your reasoning.
Provide sources to support your perspective on this issue. Be sure to apply examples from the reading and chapters this week
Resource: Ch. 15 to 17 of The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down.
part 2
Provide Feedback to the following post regarding part 1
post 1
The concept of evidence-based medical practice involves integrating scientific research, testing, and analysis of health-related matters to ensure that patients receive the most effective treatment recommendations. However, it is essential to recognize that cultural and medical beliefs, deeply rooted in traditional beliefs and historical practices, should not be disregarded. It is crucial to address patients’ cultural beliefs with sensitivity, acknowledging their significance while educating them about the limitations of these practices in treating various health conditions. This approach is essential to ensure patients can make informed decisions about their healthcare.
I concur with Fadiman’s metaphor, as it underscores the importance of cultural competence in healthcare and the need to respect the beliefs and values of diverse cultures in relation to healthcare (Hinton, 2005). In the metaphor, Fadiman likens the Hmong to a visual perception puzzle, highlighting the complexities involved in understanding the Hmong’s cultural perspective on healthcare. This emphasizes the necessity of empathy and understanding in healthcare, emphasizing the need first to comprehend a patient’s cultural stance and beliefs to provide superior healthcare services.
References:
Hinton, J. L. (2005). The spirit catches you, and you fall. Therapeutic Recreation Journal, 39(1), 88.
The Importance of Cultural Competence in Healthcare: Strategies for Effective Communication and Patient Care. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://jordanimutan.com/2023/05/12/the-importance…
Navigating College Life with Celiac Disease: Tips for Success. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.belindawhelan.com/post/navigating-coll…
post 2
Whil considering whether it’s immoral or insensitive to prioritize evidence-based medical practices over cultural beliefs, one must weigh all options and nuances. While evidence-based medicine (EBM) is grounded in scientific methods and proven efficacy, cultural medical beliefs often hold deep significance within communities and religious groups. Disregarding cultural beliefs entirely can be insensitive and disregard the holistic needs and values of patients. However, when these beliefs conflict with established medical knowledge, prioritizing EBM becomes a matter of ethics and patient well-being.
Fadiman’s metaphor that compares the Hmong to a visual perception puzzle is an excellent example of this phenomenon. The Hmong, like the intricate puzzle, embody a complex interplay of culture, history, and identity. Understanding their worldview requires patience, empathy, and an openness to seeing beyond surface differences. This demands careful observation and interpretation, as one would need a deep dive of the Hmong’s medical beliefs.
In situations where cultural beliefs pose risks to individual health or public safety, it’s ethically imperative to prioritize evidence-based practices. In the case of Lia Lee in “The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down” the unfortunate consequences of neglecting medical expertise in favor of cultural traditions is shown. While respecting cultural diversity is crucial, it must not impede on the primary goal of ensuring the best possible health outcomes for all individuals.
References
Fadiman, A. (1997). The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down: A Hmong Child, Her American Doctors, and the Collision of Two Cultures. Farrar, Straus and Giroux.
Suhail-Sindhu, S., & Crigger, N. J. (2018). Cultural competence as a core requirement in medical education: A literature review. Journal of Academic Medicine, 93(3), 357-363.