Cultural Competency

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What is cultural competency?

Valuing, embracing and implementing cultural competency and diversity within our organization

Cultural competency refers to the ongoing and intentional attainment of skills that allow an individual to function effectively when interacting with people who have different backgrounds and experiences.

The goal of cultural competency is not to change your core values or beliefs, but rather to provide you with the skills needed to work with and assist people who may have different life perspectives than you. People who are well versed in culturally competency are able to better assist Delta Dental’s members, while at the same time maintaining their own personal identities.

How does cultural competency impact me in my position?

While performing services as a provider participating in one of Delta Dental’s networks, you may encounter people with a variety of backgrounds and experiences, including individuals with:

  • Various income levels and education
  • Different races and ethnicities
  • Physical, emotional or behavioral disabilities
  • Different ages
  • Various sexual and gender identities
  • Different religious or spiritual backgrounds

As such, you will need to:

  • Remember that race, ethnicity, gender, spirituality and other issues may play a role in an individual’s health care decisions;
  • Understand the community you serve and the different cultures contained in it;
  • Practice cultural etiquette by being respectful of others’ beliefs and values;
  • Be empathic. Have the ability to identify and reflect another person’s emotions; and
  • Be open-minded.

Cultural competency skills

Developing cultural competency requires an honest look at your own cultural identity and personal biases to better understand and accept the diverse perspectives of others. By actively learning about different histories and recognizing unique barriers to care, you can provide more inclusive and effective support for every individual.
Awareness of your own culture
Self-knowledge increases your sensitivity to differences. Recognizing your own cultural uniqueness, and how that impacts your daily life, allows you to see the cultural uniqueness in others.
Learn to accept and understand differences
Acceptance does not mean changing the way you see the world. Acceptance means understanding that other people may view the world differently than you do and being welcoming and accepting of people in light of those differences.
Know your stereotypes and biases
Knowledge and acceptance of personal stereotypes and biases reduces the likelihood of their use.
Recognize barriers to care
In some instances, individuals may not seek services due to their background and/or beliefs.

Additional Resources

For more resources and further education, please visit: