Exploring transplant opportunities in Hmong culture: a case report

Abstract

A clinical case is used to explore the ethical complexities of solid organ donation and transplantation within the Hmong community in the United States. Although many cultures can present various ethical issues, the challenges of the Hmong belief system are unique and distinctly complex. Ways for the medical team to integrate with the Hmong value system to attempt to create an environment of transcultural respect and appreciation are described.

Delivery of transplant care among Hmong kidney transplant recipients: Outcomes from a single institution

“…Many of them subsequently fled with most refugees settling in the United States . California is home to the largest population of Hmong people in the United States with 96 000; while Minnesota has the second largest population with 72 000 …”

“…Caring for immigrant populations can pose challenges stemming from cultural and linguistic differences from their providers. For instance, in the Hmong population, there is often a mistrust of surgeons due to spiritual beliefs that every organ has its own soul, and that disfigurements or injuries to a soul in this life can follow one into the next life during reincarnation . Additionally, language and socioeconomic barriers make access to health care more difficult due to lack of familiarity with healthcare systems and inadequate insurance .…”