Diversity is essential to the vision, mission and strategic directions of the health system at large. This involves diversity in who is represented at all levels of the health workforce and the development of cultural competence (the attitudes, knowledge, skills, behaviors and policies) required to better meet the needs of all the people we serve.
Cultural competence can work to reduce disparities in health status and health services. It can support the increased detection of population-specific diseases and conditions. It can also address inequitable access to primary health care and respond to Nova Scotia's existing and changing demographics. The diversity of Nova Scotians includes such factors as race, ethnicity, language, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, (dis)ability, spirituality, age, geography, literacy, education and income. A culturally competent primary health care system will provide care to patients and clients with diverse values, beliefs and behaviors, and include tailoring care to meet their needs. This requires increasing understanding of individuals and communities and devising strategies to identify and address barriers to accessing quality primary health care.
Complimentary to the work of diversity, social inclusion and cultural competence in primary health care, the Diversity and Social Inclusion Health Policy Advisor works within the Department of Health and in collaboration with external health partners to build systemic cultural competence and build on the Cultural Competence Guidelines for the Delivery of Primary Health Care. This includes expanding the application of the Guidelines to all aspects of the health system.
Resources and tools that support diversity, social inclusion & cultural competence include:
- Cultural Competence Guidelines (PDF)
- A Cultural Competence Guide for Primary Health Care Professionals in Nova Scotia (PDF)
- Cultural Competence for Primary Health Care in Nova Scotia: A DVD (need Flash Player) and Discussion Guide (PDF)
- Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender And Intersex Initiative
- Nova Scotia Disabled Persons Commission
- Nova Scotia Department of Seniors
- Nova Scotia Advisory Council on the Status of Women
- Nova Scotia Youth Secretariat
The following links provide information on the health needs of culturally diverse populations and/or inclusion issues.
Some Local Organizations
- Multicultural Association of Nova Scotia
- Metro Immigrant Settlement Association
- Health Association of African Canadians
Atlantic Organizations
Offices of NS Government
Federal Government
- Canadian Human Rights Commission
- Social and Economic Inclusion in Atlantic Canada
- Health Canada: Population and Public Health Branch
International Organizations