Keywords

Cultural Competence, Pre-Medical Education, Health Disparities, Cross-Cultural Care, Cultural Humility, Social Determinants of Health

Abstract

As the U.S. population continues to grow more diverse, there is an urgent need for future healthcare providers to develop strong cultural competence. This study investigates undergraduate pre-medical students’ knowledge, attitudes, and comfort levels toward caring for diverse patient populations, including immigrants, refugees, and individuals from varied cultural backgrounds. The goal was to assess how well students are prepared to provide culturally responsive care before entering medical school. Recognizing that the foundation for medical training begins at the undergraduate level, this study aims to identify specific gaps in readiness that may hinder equitable patient care in the future.

A modified version of the Harvard Cross-Cultural Care Survey was distributed to premedical undergraduates at the University of Central Florida. The survey assessed students’ selfreported knowledge, comfort, and perceptions of importance regarding cross-cultural clinical situations. A total of 25 complete responses were analyzed using descriptive statistics and correlation analysis. Preliminary findings revealed that although most students recognize the importance of cultural competence, many lack the confidence and formal training needed to navigate key challenges, particularly those involving language barriers and understanding cultural or religious beliefs that may affect care.

The study uncovered a significant gap in undergraduate preparation to address the complex needs of diverse patient populations. This research emphasized the importance of earlier intervention in medical education. The findings of this study propose that colleges, including the University of Central Florida’s College of Health Professions and Sciences, integrate a formal curriculum focused on cultural competence for pre-health students. By doing so, future providers can be better prepared to deliver equitable, empathetic, and effective care to all patient populations. This study offers critical insight into the evolving needs of medical education and calls for proactive change at the undergraduate level.

Keywords: Cultural Competence, Pre-Medical Education, Health Disparities, Cross-Cultural Care, Cultural Humility, Social Determinants of Health

Thesis Completion Year

2025

Thesis Completion Semester

Summer

Thesis Chair

Yalim, Asli

College

College of Health Professions and Sciences

Department

Health Sciences

Thesis Discipline

Health Sciences

Language

English

Access Status

Open Access

Length of Campus Access

None

Campus Location

Orlando (Main) Campus

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Rights Statement

In Copyright