Communication plays a vital role in accessing and receiving healthcare. A recent Mental and Behavioral Health Landscape Assessment conducted by Healthy Archuleta highlighted the importance of training primary care providers in integrated and culturally competent care. The assessment also underscored the importance of improving mental and behavioral health literacy within Spanish-speaking and Hispanic/Latino households. In response to these findings, Healthy Archuleta collaborated with expert professionals to bring essential resources to the community.

In April, a two-day training initiative was launched, targeting both healthcare providers and Spanish-speaking families. These sessions aimed to advance culturally competent care practices and foster open conversations about mental health within Spanish-speaking communities. The training for healthcare providers focused on developing culturally competent practices in both primary and behavioral healthcare settings. It emphasized the significance of cultural competency, the necessary values and skills required including the importance of curiosity, and utilized case studies to facilitate group discussions. A key element of the training was the focus on provider-patient communication. It recognized that communication can either reinforce or challenge an individual's beliefs and values, subsequently influencing patient satisfaction, adherence to recommendations, and overall health outcomes.

One specific case study highlighted a patient with a family history of stroke seeking preventative care. This patient had previously experienced a medical visit where assumptions were made based on their name and perceived background. The healthcare provider had assumed the patient spoke Spanish and had certain dietary habits without asking any preliminary questions. This experience illustrated how stereotypes can lead to misunderstandings and damage the patient-provider relationship, particularly when cultural differences are present. Such interactions can deter individuals from diverse backgrounds from seeking necessary medical care. When healthcare providers make assumptions based on a patient's ethnicity, race, or name, they risk undermining the quality of care. Ultimately, healthcare providers are focused on achieving positive health outcomes, helping patients manage or overcome disease, and improving their overall well-being. Patient satisfaction is a crucial first step in this process, leading to adherence to recommendations and the realization of the provider's envisioned outcomes.

Therefore, the primary objective of these training sessions, both current and future, is to enhance communication between healthcare providers and community members. Improved communication is essential for ensuring access to primary, preventive, and mental/behavioral healthcare, enhancing patient satisfaction, promoting adherence to treatment plans that respect individual backgrounds and values, and ultimately achieving better health outcomes for a healthier community. Healthy Archuleta looks forward to further collaborations with local healthcare and mental/behavioral health providers, the community, and experienced professionals, such as Drs. Canaca, whose expertise lies in serving diverse populations in rural settings, including Native American, Hispanic/Latino, and immigrant communities.

Primary care is the backbone of community health. It’s all about prevention, wellness check-ups, and treating common illnesses. Your regular doctor, nurse, or other healthcare provider is your primary care buddy. They’re the ones who catch health issues we might miss, notice subtle changes, and ask, “How are you really doing?” They know us well and can tell when something’s off.Archuleta County has a variety of options for primary care. If you already have a provider, an annual wellness visit is a great way to review your health and wellness, make sure you’re up to date on screenings, and chat about your health goals.If you don’t have a provider yet, there are several healthcare organizations that can help you find one. Setting up an annual wellness visit with your new provider is a great way to build a relationship and learn more about your health and wellness. Want to boost your health and well-being? Check out the annual Health Fair & Expo in October! It’s a great place to get affordable wellness tests, connect with your primary care provider, and learn more about health and wellness. 

Now’s the perfect time to schedule your annual wellness check-up, chat with your doctor, and set the stage for a healthy year ahead. For more info on primary care in Archuleta County, visit Healthy Archuleta’s website at https://www.foodcoalition4archuleta.org/primary-health-care-access.html. ​