Diversity in Advanced Health Practice
Caring for Chinese, Filipino, & Vietnamese Populations
A. There are several health and illness practices among Chinese-American clients that may augment problems associated with the treatment of hypertension. It was estimated in 2015 that 23.2% (n = 244.5 million) of Chinese adults had hypertension and 41.3% (n=435.3 million) had pre-hypertension (Chan & Chan, 2023). Chinese-American clients often integrate Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) with Western medical treatments, which can lead to interactions between herbal remedies and prescribed medications. In addition, Chinese dietary habits often include high sodium intake due to using soy sauce, salted fish, and other preserved foods. High sodium consumption is a known risk factor for hypertension, and dietary modification is a critical component of hypertension management. Encouraging dietary changes while being respectful of cultural preferences can be challenging but necessary for effective management. Furthermore, some Chinese-American clients might view hypertension as a temporary imbalance that can be corrected through lifestyle changes or TCM rather than a chronic condition requiring long-term management with medication. This perception can lead to non-compliance with prescribed antihypertensive regimens.
B. Locus of control refers to an individual’s belief about the underlying causes of events in their lives. This can be either internal or external. Some Filipino Americans have an external locus of control that is based on the belief that illness is caused by external forces, which may be either natural or supernatural (Ginger & Haddad, 2021). This includes reliance on faith, prayer, and divine intervention, as well as a fatalistic attitude encapsulated by the phrase bahala na (Tolentino et al., 2023). Health decisions are influenced by family and community, potentially delaying medical care. Strategies to address this include cultural sensitivity training, integrating cultural practices, involving family in health education, and empowering clients to take proactive health measures.
C. One of the most prominent forms of traditional medicine in the Vietnamese American community is folk medicine, which encompasses a variety of healing practices and remedies that have been passed down through generations. Folk healers play a crucial role in diagnosing and treating illnesses using a combination of herbal remedies, acupuncture, cupping, and other traditional techniques. These healers are highly respected within the community and are often sought out for their wisdom and expertise in treating a wide range of ailments. One of the key reasons why folk medicine and folk healers are so important to Vietnamese Americans is the deep cultural connection these practices have to their homeland. For many immigrants, traditional medicine is a way to maintain a sense of identity and connection to their roots, even as they navigate the challenges of adapting to a new culture. By preserving and practicing these ancient healing traditions, Vietnamese Americans can pass down their cultural heritage to future generations and keep alive the rich tapestry of their cultural history. Furthermore, folk medicine offers a holistic approach to health and wellness that addresses not only the physical symptoms of illness but also the emotional and spiritual well-being of the individual. Many Vietnamese Americans believe in the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit and view illness as a disruption of this balance. By seeking out the guidance of folk healers, they can address the root causes of their ailments and achieve healing on a deeper level. Challenges include potential interactions with Western medications and delays in seeking necessary care. Healthcare providers should respect these practices, encourage open communication, educate patients on the benefits and limitations of both folk and Western medicine, and seek ways to integrate both approaches for holistic care.
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