Culturally Responsive Healthcare Practice

The Australian health system faces a significant challenge in catering to its highly diverse population. Cultural and language differences greatly impact communication within healthcare settings, often leading to delayed care, reduced access to preventative services, and general dissatisfaction among culturally diverse population groups. Addressing these issues requires a systemic approach to establishing culturally responsive care that enhances service accessibility and outcomes. This approach aims to provide equitable, culturally sensitive care and promote better health outcomes for all Australians. Given the gaps between research and practice in this area, I am leading a number of research projects that explore the healthcare experiences of individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds, living in Australia, focusing on the barriers they face due to culturally unresponsive care. The findings from these projects will offer insights and actionable recommendations to foster culturally responsive healthcare practices both in Australia and internationally. The research projects employ both quantitative and qualitative methods and involve various stakeholders, including healthcare consumers, providers, educators, and policymakers. I welcome PhD, honors or short-term research placement students (e.g., PBH3006, BMS3990, or summer placements) to assist with these projects. The scope of your project, including co-supervisors, will be defined through a consultative process. I am looking forward to your participation and contributions.