Abstract
Culturally and linguistically diverse communities have a greater prevalence of diabetes and poorer outcomes than the Australian-born population. Managing diabetes in this group of patients can be challenging due to multiple barriers involving both the patient and the healthcare professional.
Key Points
- In culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities there is a greater prevalence of type 2 diabetes, occurring at a younger age and with poorer outcomes.
- GPs should familiarise themselves with the risk factors and prevalence of diabetes and particular challenges in various ethnic groups to guide screening and management.
- Allocation of adequate time with the aim to address two to three key issues at each appointment is optimal in the CALD patient consultation.
- Cultural humility and diversity awareness is a goal for all healthcare professionals in assisting CALD patients.
- Involving bilingual and multicultural staff and the effective use of medical interpreters aids patient compliance.
- Culturally tailored programs and strategies, with acceptability to the target group, is an important step in health equity in CALD populations.
- The use of community leaders in diabetes education programs help enforce positive exercise and dietary behaviours and assist with de-stigmatisation.
