Perceptions of healthcare quality: Does culture matter? (Missouri)

Our cultural realities influence our perceptions about healthcare quality. This study examined 100 women in two rural Missouri communities with regard to their perceptions of the quality of care they experienced. The demographic shift to the heartland of America has brought new challenges for providers and consumers alike, in providing and obtaining quality healthcare. Hispanics were the fastest growing population in the United States from 1999--2000, according to the 2000 Census figures of 22.4 to 35.3 million.1 Hispanics have expanded their movement from the traditional Southwestern states to the Midwestern ones, which is why the demographic landscape of rural Missouri has so drastically changed.; This diversification is continually evolving as newcomers settle in predominantly Euro centric (white), English-speaking communities. The historical norms in these communities are necessarily evolving. Healthcare providers and consumers are at the forefront of this dilemma as the influx of Hispanics brings about change in rural Missouri. Differences in language, beliefs about education, socio economic status, beliefs about medicine and treatment types people value and use, among other cultural variables influence the well being of a community.; In this comparative study, one hundred women from two Missouri communities were personally interviewed. One half of the participants were Hispanic and the other non-Hispanic. The findings revealed that cultural associations (beliefs, values, traditions and customs) affect the women's perceptions about healthcare quality. Their healthcare needs are met through a combination of what they do for themselves and the care they get from healthcare professionals. Hispanics overall were satisfied with the care they receive. They doubt, however, that they will continue to receive good healthcare in the future, as compared to non-Hispanic women. Differences in perceptions of healthcare quality existed between and within groups, and some of the barriers had negative impacts on those affected. The challenge for providers and consumers is to educate one other about cultural differences and find value and strength in these differences. A person's experience with the healthcare system can have lasting effects; whether positive or negative. These effects impact not only the women, but also their loved ones. As communities become more diverse, it is essential that healthcare providers and consumers develop ways to support the healthcare needs of all their constituents, regardless of their culture or origin. It is the only way people with different languages, values, customs, traditions, and beliefs are going to successfully co-exist in these changing environments.; 1USA Statistics in Brief-Population and Vital Statistics...