Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to ensure that all members of the practice team provide care that is respectful of the cultural identities, values, and beliefs of all patients. This policy is designed to support a culturally safe environment that is free from discrimination, promoting inclusivity, respect, and equality in healthcare delivery.

Scope
This policy applies to all practice team members, including but not limited to doctors, nurses, allied health professionals, administrative staff, and any other individuals involved in patient care and service provision within the practice. It extends to all patients who seek care, as well as their families and carers.

Principles

1. Cultural Respect and Sensitivity
   • All practice team members must be aware of, and respect, the cultural backgrounds, beliefs, and practices of each patient.
   • Care must be delivered in a way that acknowledges and incorporates patients’ cultural values, religious practices, and language needs, ensuring that these factors are considered during assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and care planning.
2. Cultural Safety in Practice
   • Cultural safety is about creating an environment where patients feel safe, respected, and empowered in the context of their cultural identity.
   • The practice must support patients in expressing their cultural identity without fear of prejudice or marginalisation.
   • Discrimination of any form based on race, ethnicity, language, religion, gender, or sexual orientation will not be tolerated.
3. Non-Discrimination
   • Every patient is entitled to equal treatment and care regardless of their cultural or social background.
   • The practice will actively challenge and address any instances of discrimination, bias, or stereotyping that may occur in interactions with patients or within the practice team.
4. Patient-Centred Care
   • The practice will provide individualised care that considers and respects the cultural preferences of each patient.
   • All healthcare professionals should engage with patients to understand their specific cultural needs and provide care that aligns with their preferences.

Roles and Responsibilities

1. Practice Team Responsibilities
   • Ensure all team members receive training in cultural competence, including an understanding of cultural safety, anti-discrimination practices, and respectful communication.
   • Regularly review and update policies and procedures to ensure alignment with best practices for cultural safety.
   • Establish open lines of communication with patients to understand and respect their cultural preferences, needs, and practices.
   • Provide patients with the option to request culturally appropriate services, such as interpreters or culturally specific care providers, when necessary.
2. Patient Responsibilities
   • Patients are encouraged to share their cultural preferences, health beliefs, and any other factors that may affect their care.
   • Patients should feel confident that their cultural identity will be respected and upheld throughout their treatment journey.

Training and Education

• All members of the practice team will participate in regular training on cultural safety and competency. This will include:
  • Awareness of cultural differences and their impact on health and healthcare.
  • Developing effective communication strategies to ensure that cultural differences are acknowledged and respected.
  • Training on identifying and addressing discrimination and bias in clinical and administrative settings.

Complaint Resolution and Reporting

• If a patient or team member believes that cultural safety or non-discrimination standards have not been maintained, they are encouraged to report the issue immediately to the practice manager.
• The practice will take immediate action to investigate and resolve any complaints of discrimination, bias, or lack of cultural respect.
• Patients and team members will be provided with clear, confidential pathways to report any concerns or complaints.

Monitoring and Review

• This policy will be reviewed annually to ensure it remains current and effective in promoting a culturally safe and non-discriminatory environment.
• Regular audits will be conducted to assess the practice’s adherence to this policy and the effectiveness of training programs.

Conclusion
The practice is committed to providing a culturally safe environment for both the practice team and patients, where all individuals are treated with dignity, respect, and equality. This policy outlines our commitment to cultural safety and non-discrimination, ensuring that all patients receive care that is responsive to their cultural needs and values in line with the standards set by the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP).