Medical sociology
March 2012
My Health, My Faith, My Culture
A Guide for Healthcare Practitioners
by Sue Timmins
Every patient, whatever their cultural background and religious affiliation, is entitled to receive healthcare that is sensitive, appropriate and person- centred. In the UK today, there are people from many different minority groups. There are also members of the host population who follow religions other than Christianity, either from birth or personal choice. The patient’s chosen or birth faith should always play an integral part in their care. This helpful guide enables healthcare practitioners to rise to the challenge of providing culturally sensitive services by giving them an understanding of patients’ varying potential requirements and how to meet them.
