Community pharmacists' cultural competence and awareness in healthcare delivery: a cross-sectional study on perceptions, practices, and demographic influences in the United Arab Emirates.

Abstract

Background: Community pharmacists (CPs) are crucial in the healthcare system, particularly in providing culturally sensitive care to diverse populations.

Method: This cross-sectional study assessed the cultural competence and culturally competent behaviours of 360 licensed CPs practicing in Dubai, Sharjah, and Ajman, focusing on the influence of demographic characteristics, training, and workplace support.

Result: Most participants were aged 31-40, mostly non-Arab and bilingual. Although 88.9% had lived abroad for over three years, only 24.4% viewed themselves as culturally competent. The mean cultural awareness score was 44.69, indicating moderate to high awareness. An independent samples t-test revealed that CPs who had received cultural diversity training scored significantly higher on the cultural awareness scale (M = 46.17, SD = 9.84) than those without training (M = 43.82, SD = 10.29), t(358) = 2.121, p = .035. A statistically significant association was found between previous cultural diversity training and self-perceived competence (χ²(4) = 19.933, p < .001). Furthermore, a strong association was observed between perceived adequacy of staffing and workflow and self-perceived competence (χ²(8) = 37.523, p < .001; Cramér's V = 0.228). Additionally, one-way ANOVA tests showed no significant differences in cultural competence behaviour scores observed across demographic and workplace variables.

Conclusion: This study highlights the need for cultural competence training for CPs to improve patient-centred care in diverse healthcare environments in the United Arab Emirates.