Tools for Enhancing Cultural Competence and Cultural Humility in PA Students: The Effects of an Online Course and Immersion Experience Abroad.

Abstract

Introduction: Clinicians receiving cultural competence and cultural humility training are better equipped to address cultural misunderstandings and language barriers, thereby improving patient outcomes. Although physician assistant/associate (PA) programs incorporate such training into their curricula, there is little evidence to substantiate its efficacy, and the optimal modalities for instruction remain unknown. This study examined and compared the effects of 2 modalities for building cultural competence: an online course and a cultural immersion experience abroad.

Methods: This mixed-methods study assessed for changes in cultural competence and cultural humility among PA students participating in an online course followed by a 2-week cultural immersion experience in Costa Rica. Inventory for Assessing the Process of Cultural Competemility Among Healthcare Professionals (IAPCC-HCP©) scores were obtained before and after online instruction, as well as after the study-abroad experience. Qualitative data were obtained from student journals and reflection papers.

Results: The results indicated a significant increase in cultural competence and cultural humility with a large effect size following the online course (P < .001). Even though the study-abroad experience did not result in further gains (P > .05), qualitative analysis of student journaling demonstrated perceived value from the experience, including an expanded worldview, enhanced self-efficacy, and new feelings of empathy.

Discussion: These findings suggest online training can positively impact self-assessed levels of intercultural functioning even in the absence of cultural immersion through study abroad. However, students who participated in the study-abroad component found it to be a rewarding educational experience, providing opportunities for personal growth and continued development as clinicians capable of caring for diverse populations.