A series of articles written by SCCO Student Ambassadors.

The Power of a Welcoming Healthcare Environment

by SCCO Student Ambassador, Christa Velasco

I always hated going to the doctor.

It wasn’t because I was scared. Even as a child, I knew that I would feel physically better after receiving treatment. I hated going to the doctor because I felt as though they were looking down on me. This anxiety was the result of years of negative interactions and off-hand remarks on top of the difficulty in receiving care due to my family’s financial struggles. My mixed experience with healthcare inspired me to become a provider myself, as I want to create a safer and more welcoming environment for patients.

Marginalized communities already struggle to receive care due to a variety of systemic barriers. As such, even when they receive care, they are often reluctant to pursue further and/or follow-up treatment. This may be due to several factors, but one of the underlying causes is lack of mutual respect.

Speaking from personal experience with my father, older immigrants are often averse to Western medicine, because of cultural factors or previous cases of mistreatment by Western providers. It is important for providers to meet their patients where they are to foster a positive, understanding connection. Taking the extra time to communicate the reasons for tests and treatments in plain language goes a long way, and understanding a patient’s personal standpoint on medicine may assist in creating an effective treatment plan.

Similarly, it is difficult for transgender and gender-nonconforming individuals to receive care, often due to subpar treatment which may include disrespect for their identity. Even if it may seem tedious, asking for a patient’s preferred pronouns can foster an environment in which they may be more comfortable. It is incredibly important to acknowledge both someone’s preferred pronouns and name, as it shows both respect for their identity and genuine desire to provide a space in which the provider/patient interactions can go much smoother.

When considering patient care, the way to bridge the gap between being a good provider and being a great provider is by connecting with your patients. As a provider, you should be making your patients feel seen and heard. Creating a positive environment through friendliness and understanding will make patients regard you fondly and support retention for your practice.

Acknowledging and respecting other people’s identities is critical when providing care, no matter what role you play in the healthcare field. Whether you are a technician, a provider, or someone aiding in managerial operations, the way you treat a patient will affect them long after they walk out your door.

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