Mode of Program Participation
Academic Scholarship
Participation Type
Paper
Presentation #1 Title
Mountain Religion and Healthcare in Appalachia: What Health Care Providers Need to Know
Presentation #1 Abstract or Summary
The Appalachian region has long experienced economic, social, and health disparities compared to the rest of the United States. While many factors underlie these disparities, one often-overlooked component is the cultural disconnect between health care provider and patient. In rural, underserved mountain areas, healthcare providers have often been recruited from outside the region or even from outside the country. Frequently, these providers are negatively influenced by stereotypes of the people who live in the Appalachian region. Providing specific training for health care providers concerning the culture, values, beliefs and communication issues of native Appalachian patients would be very helpful in improving communication and the interactions between health care providers and patients, thereby improving health outcomes. This presentation will focus on what health care providers in Appalachia need to know and understand about native Appalachian patients and their unique religious expression of faith as it relates to health care. The rich spiritual and religious heritage which native Appalachians share is one important aspect of the culture of native Appalachian people. Knowledge concerning the religious heritage, beliefs, and practices of native Appalachians will enable health care providers to provide culturally sensitive care, which will be the most beneficial for the patient. Religion and spirituality are among the most important cultural factors that give structure and meaning to human values, behaviors, and experiences” (Mueller, Plevak, & Rummans, 2001). Addressing patients’ spiritual and religious needs in health care is an important aspect of providing the best health care possible.
At-A-Glance Bio- Presenter #1
Robyn has many years of experience as a Registered Nurse. She is currently pursuing a Masters In Appalachian Studies with plans of teaching Appalachian Cultural Competency for health care providers.
Mountain Religion and Healthcare in Appalachia: What Health Care Providers Need to Know
The Appalachian region has long experienced economic, social, and health disparities compared to the rest of the United States. While many factors underlie these disparities, one often-overlooked component is the cultural disconnect between health care provider and patient. In rural, underserved mountain areas, healthcare providers have often been recruited from outside the region or even from outside the country. Frequently, these providers are negatively influenced by stereotypes of the people who live in the Appalachian region. Providing specific training for health care providers concerning the culture, values, beliefs and communication issues of native Appalachian patients would be very helpful in improving communication and the interactions between health care providers and patients, thereby improving health outcomes. This presentation will focus on what health care providers in Appalachia need to know and understand about native Appalachian patients and their unique religious expression of faith as it relates to health care. The rich spiritual and religious heritage which native Appalachians share is one important aspect of the culture of native Appalachian people. Knowledge concerning the religious heritage, beliefs, and practices of native Appalachians will enable health care providers to provide culturally sensitive care, which will be the most beneficial for the patient. Religion and spirituality are among the most important cultural factors that give structure and meaning to human values, behaviors, and experiences” (Mueller, Plevak, & Rummans, 2001). Addressing patients’ spiritual and religious needs in health care is an important aspect of providing the best health care possible.
