Intercultural competence in medical practice

Definition of the problem The issue of cultural diversity in medicine is more relevant than ever due to increased migration and pluralism. Over the past few years, both cross-cultural conflicts and the role cultural imperatives and values play in the physician-patient relationship have been a focus of public as well as scientific discourse. The question of how to provide culturally sensitive care has, therefore, become increasingly urgent. Training health care professionals in intercultural competence is a major step forward, but so far the medical field in Germany has been slow to acknowledge the significance of this topic. Arguments In this article, the authors critically analyze the different concepts of culture and the conception of culture in the medical context and advance a framework of intercultural philosophy designed to specify a culturally sensitive ethics. Subsequently, the notion of the concept of "intercultural competence" is examined, on the basis of which the authors argue that a form of competence is needed, which is founded on a constructivist approach. Furthermore, developments in medical education regarding (1) the implementation of cultural training and (2) cultural engagement in clinical ethics are illustrated. Conclusion There are many developments in the form of guidelines and training modules which provide a productive chance for collaboration between diverse scientific disciplines. At the same time, there is room for improvement in the field of education and advanced training. In order to meet the need for culturally sensitive care in German hospitals and to achieve the levels attained internationally, it is essential to build upon the programs and suggestions that are outlined in this article and create standards for hospitals and medical curricula.