Finding a Common Language: Intercultural Development in Global Context

Abstract

Global Health (GH) represents a vibrant mosaic of cultures and perspectives united by a common goal: universal access to health and well-being. In GH collaborations, there’s an eagerness to embrace diverse cultures and ways of life, fostering reflection and growth. Yet, navigating intercultural collaboration poses challenges, prompting a reevaluation of personal perspectives and biases, crucial for fostering understanding and equity.

Participants of the Nuvance Health GH Program encounter diverse cultural interactions, facilitated by extensive preparation and support. However, barriers to intercultural development persist. Insufficient awareness of diverse beliefs and practices can lead to culturally inappropriate care, exacerbated by language barriers and unconscious biases. Power imbalances and structural inequalities further impede progress, perpetuating disparities in access to care and representation in leadership roles. To address these barriers, efforts must prioritize cultural competence, diversity, and inclusion in healthcare delivery. Training programs and policies promoting awareness and respect for cultural diversity are vital. The Nuvance Health GH Program is developing an intercultural learning curriculum to support students and international partners alike.

In a panel discussion, we explore cultural differences in education and collaboration, particularly between High-Income Countries (HICs) and Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs). We identify challenges in fostering cross-cultural understanding, including systemic inequalities and unconscious biases, and discuss strategies for improvement. These include promoting self-awareness, empathy, and cultural relativity, alongside actionable recommendations for enhancing intercultural communication competencies in GH education.

International collaborations play a pivotal role in shaping this curriculum, utilizing innovative approaches such as digital learning platforms and cross-cultural dialogue. By bridging the HIC-LMIC gap in cultural concepts, we aim to foster meaningful interactions and address GH disparities.