IN SR0034

Urges the Legislative Council to assign the topic of mandatory cultural competency training for health care professional licensure to an appropriate study committee

Applies to all health care professions seeking licensure, excluding veterinarians

Cultural competency training encompasses awareness of cultural differences, knowledge of cultural groups, skills to modify behavior for patient understanding, and ability to advocate for patients

Notes that more than 20 states have already passed legislation to improve cultural competency within health care systems

Cites health disparities as a public health concern affecting neighborhoods, communities, and broader society, with federal HHS guidelines already in place