Horizon Treatment Services

Roland Williams - CLAS Standards in Healthcare & Treatment Services Ep 04

Horizon Treatment Services Season 1 Episode 4

How can we transform healthcare into a more inclusive and equitable system for all? Join us for a thought-provoking conversation with Roland Williams, an experienced addictions therapist and author, who shares his expert insights on cultural diversity in healthcare. Together with our host Jen Slusser-MacTernan, Director of Outreach and Talent Development at Horizon Treatment Services, we promise to unpack the critical role of Culturally and Linguistically Appropriate Services (CLAS) and how they can revolutionize patient outcomes. This episode is a deep dive into the nuances of effective communication tailored to diverse cultural and linguistic needs.

Roland and Jen navigate the intricate landscape of cultural competence and inclusion within healthcare and addiction treatment organizations. They address the complexities of understanding privilege from various perspectives, such as gender, sexual orientation, and socioeconomic status. [Privilege Wheel Activity]. The discussion also highlights the differences between urban and rural cultural contexts and their impact on implementing inclusive practices. By creating safe spaces for staff to share experiences and perspectives on privilege and discrimination, healthcare organizations can foster a more inclusive environment for patients.

Our episode wouldn't be complete without tackling trauma-informed care and its significance in healthcare. We highlight the importance of organizational and clinician buy-in for culturally sensitive approaches, addressing the long-term impacts of childhood trauma on health and behavior. Roland and Jen emphasize the necessity of recognizing implicit biases within healthcare organizations to ensure equitable treatment for all patients. With practical steps for sustaining cultural competence, including regular client feedback and the role of CLAS Champions, this episode equips you with the knowledge to contribute to continuous improvement in healthcare. Tune in to transform your understanding of cultural diversity in healthcare and its broader implications.

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Media - Podcasts (horizonservices.org)