Valuing local diversity in palliative care: translating the concept

Abstract

The contemporary challenges associated with addressing diversity, ethnicity, equality and accessibility in today's healthcare economy, sometimes lead to a reactive response where service providers strive to apply these concepts in practice. This article describes establishing a group that could engage with the broadest spectrum of the local community in ways that would make a lasting and meaningful difference to the local population, including how individuals and groups engage with and access palliative care services. The Valuing Local Diversity in Palliative Care Group was formed in May 2006. The group, whose membership is composed of statutory and voluntary services and members of various community groups, has promoted some innovative and creative partnerships.

Palliative and End-of-Life Care Access for Immigrants Living in High-income Countries: A Scoping Review

“…The solution lies in addressing the identified vices so that immigrant communities can develop trust in the health care system, something that has been eroded. Establishing groups to engage with CaLD immigrant communities in OECD countries on issues of health, would be of benefit to both care providers and service users (Quinn & Hickey, 2008). Such an engagement would assist in establishing beliefs, values, and practices of CaLD communities which do not always correspond with palliative care policies.…”

“…Sensitivity requires recognition that not all cultures are the same, or even similar and that an effort should be made in identifying the different cultures of patients to gain confidence and trust (Schuster-Wallace et al, 2022). Culture specific engagement in palliative care is the key to accessibility by immigrant communities (Quinn & Hickey, 2008).…”