No matter your culture, language, country of origin or where you live now, your health is your most important asset. Good doctors understand that there's much more to health care than diagnosing and treating illness. Fostering great health means understanding your patients' points of view, acknowledging their background and experiences, and being open to other ways of thinking about health care.
Multiculturalism is one of the things that makes Australia the vibrant, exciting and richly cultured country that it is today. Australians understand that everyone is different, so why should everyone's approach to health care be the same? If you've been searching for a medical centre that respects your culture and recognises you as an individual, here are five signs of a truly multicultural medical centre.
1. The staff use language you find easy to understand.
Seeking medical help can be daunting, and great doctors and medical centre staff understand this. They take the time to explain your health and any tests you need to undergo in language you are comfortable using. Whether they offer you an interpreter or simply take a moment to make sure you have all the information you need, a medical centre that works with you in accessible language makes all the difference.
2. The staff respect your background and experiences.
Whether you are new to Australia or have always lived here, your cultural background and the experiences you've had in your life make you who you are today. Multicultural medical centres will meet you on your terms, respecting your background and point of view.
3. The staff recognise your needs as a woman or man of your culture.
Your culture also colours the way you see your role as a woman or man. If you prefer to see a doctor of your own gender, a multicultural medical centre will understand this, making it easy for you to access the full spectrum of health care.
4. There's nothing so embarrassing that you can't tell your doctor.
Everyone feels embarrassed sometimes, and how comfortable you feel discussing personal issues can have a big impact on your long-term health. The staff at truly multicultural medical centres know this, and they'll make it as easy as possible for you to tell the whole story.
5. You visit your medical centre to keep yourself healthy, instead of only when you're sick.
If you find yourself staying up-to-date with checkups and tests rather than just going to the doctor when you're feeling sick, you've found a multicultural medical centre that really makes you comfortable.
A great medical centre will provide truly multicultural health care, meeting you on your terms. So take your time to find a medical centre that meets your needs. You'll be very glad you did.
