CULTURAL COMPETENCE IN MEDICAL EDUCATION: A STUDY OF CURRICULUM GAPS AND STUDENT PREPAREDNESS

Abstract

Background: Cultural competence is essential in medical education to prepare future doctors for effective patient interactions in diverse healthcare settings. In Pakistan, where cultural, linguistic, and socioeconomic differences influence healthcare delivery, medical students must have the skills to navigate these complexities. However, cultural competency training remains inconsistently integrated into medical curricula, potentially leaving students unprepared to provide equitable patient care.This study aimed to assess the extent of cultural competency training at Rawal Institute of Health Sciences, Islamabad. It explored students' exposure to diverse patient populations, their confidence in managing cross-cultural interactions, and perceived gaps in the curriculum.
Methodology: A cross-sectional survey was conducted from March 2023 to March 2024, involving 89 medical students from preclinical and clinical years. Participants were selected through simple random sampling. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire covering demographic details, prior training in cultural competence, self-rated preparedness, and institutional barriers. Statistical analysis was performed using descriptive and inferential methods, with chi-square tests applied to determine significance.
Results: The findings revealed that a significant proportion of students reported limited exposure to diverse patient populations and insufficient formal training in cultural competency. While some students acknowledged institutional efforts toward diversity, many identified curriculum gaps and faculty training deficiencies as major barriers. Additionally, self-reported confidence in managing culturally diverse patients was moderate to low among most participants. The use of medical interpreters was recognized as beneficial, but training on how to utilize them effectively was lacking.
Conclusion: This study highlights the need for structured cultural competency training in medical education in Pakistan. Incorporating interactive learning methods, expanding clinical exposure to diverse populations, and improving faculty training can enhance students' preparedness for culturally competent healthcare. Addressing these gaps is crucial to ensuring that future doctors can provide patient-centered care that respects cultural differences.