PBH Cultural Competence Report & Plan 2006 |
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The importance of culture in treatment has long been largely ignored for many different reasons which include the growing cultural diversity in the United States and the fact of our community Mental Health system having been based on a medical model. However, the behavioral health field has collectively learned over time that medical intervention does not, unilaterally provide the life changing
results that we would like; there really aren’t any magic pills. The emerging approach to treatment and support is changing from the traditional doctor-patient relationship, to an egalitarian partnership between consumer and professional, and consequently, the effect and importance of a person’s culture in recovery has become increasingly apparent.
I want to thank the members of the Study Group, PBH Staff, and PBH Providers who have invested their time in this process. PBH is committed to incorporating cultural competency as one of the foundational elements of our new system. It must become an integral part of every facet of care and services. This foundation is essential for us to reach our goals of helping people achieve their own potential, independence and recovery.
