"Cultural Competence in Epidemiological Field Work with Cultures in Flu" by Diane Depken and Catherine Zeman

Article Title

Cultural Competence in Epidemiological Field Work with Cultures in Flux: Romania

Authors

Diane Depken, University of Northern IowaFollow
Catherine Zeman, University of Northern IowaFollow

Document Type

Research

Abstract

This article is a case study of conducting field -based epidemiological work in a former communist country. A brief background of Romanian history and culture is followed by discussion of the challenges of doing epidemiological science in a culture experiencing socio-political flux. In this former communist country where a common understanding of specific methods of epidemiological science and research ethics is not necessarily shared by both visiting and indigenous scientists, successful fieldwork depends on a high degree of understanding, sensitivity, and patience. The United States Department of Health and Human Services' Office of Minority Health, OMH provides guidelines for culturally competent care that, while originally designed for use in patient-provider care settings, can provide insight and direction in the practice of epidemiological fieldwork. The OMH guidelines are provided, and they are discussed in relationship to fieldwork where appropriate.

Publication Date

2001

Journal Title

International Journal of Global Health

Volume

Issue

First Page

Last Page

Copyright

Language

File Format

application/pdf

Recommended Citation

Depken, Diane and Zeman, Catherine (2001) "Cultural Competence in Epidemiological Field Work with Cultures in Flux: Romania," International Journal of Global Health, 1(1), 16-27.
Available at: https://scholarworks.uni.edu/ijgh/vol1/iss1/6