"The Latino Patient"

English > Analysis
Latin-American Studies > Immigration/Emigration issues
Latin-American Studies > Race, Class, Gender Issues

A summary and review of Dr. Nilda Chong's book, which is aimed at assisting the medical field to understand its Latin American patients.

1,581 words () | 5 sources | MLA | 2004 United States

Paper Summary:

By 2030, Latinos will comprise roughly 20 percent of the population of the United States. Growing numbers of health professionals must realize the importance of understanding Latino cultural values as they impact the clinical encounter. Such knowledge can enhance their ability to communicate with and treat Latino patients effectively and respectfully. This paper reviews Nilda Chong's book, "The Latino Patient", which helps to improve clinicians' knowledge by providing an in-depth, culturally relative exploration of Latino diversity; relevant cultural values; health status, beliefs and practices and effective communication strategies. The paper summarizes Parts One and Two of the book and explains the different models presented by Dr. Chong.

From the Paper:

"In addition to a common language, Latinos share a set of values quite different from those of mainstream Americans. However, due to the diverse nations that Latino's originate from, it is easy to conclude that not every Latino could be classified into certain cultural values. "Although Latinos in the United States often share similar cultural values and health beliefs, there are differences among groups." (Murguia, Peterson and Zea) However, Dr. Chong discusses those values she deems most relevant to the clinical encounter: collectivism, familism, personalismo, gender issues, power distance, respect, religiosity, simpatia, and time orientation."