Learning Event Support: Religion and Spirituality in Medicine: Does It Have a Place? - The Hmong Experience

Project Description Narrative:

In healthcare, a patient’s spiritual or religious beliefs may influence or interfere with medical decisions, including suggested treatments or interventions. Learning how to approach care for patients from diverse faith backgrounds while emphasizing the importance of patient autonomy in making healthcare decisions is essential to all physicians’ interactions with diverse populations.

In Wisconsin, the Hmong comprise a large percentage of the state’s refugee population. Understanding Hmong cultural customs and practices significantly affect healthcare providers’ abilities to create positive patient care experiences and outcomes.

With AHW funding support, the event will educate Medical College of Wisconsin pre-clinical and pharmacy students on Hmong culture and traditions, including discussions with a Hmong shaman and facilitators. Participants will learn how Hmong spiritual beliefs may impact their medical treatment plan and healthcare decision-making, increasing their spiritual awareness and supporting diverse voices in Wisconsin communities.