Nairy Ghazourian, MPH, CHES¹, Diana M. Carr, MA², Nancy Wongvipat, MPH¹, Peggy Haines, RN³, and Bruce Chernof, MD, FACP⁴. (1) State Health Programs, Health Education Department, Health Net of California, Inc., 1055 E. Colorado Blvd. Suite 300, Pasadena, CA 91106, (626) 683-6463, nairy.ghazourian@health.net, (2) State Health Programs, Cultural and Linguistics Department, Health Net of California, Inc., 1055 E. Colorado Blvd. Suite 300, Pasadena, CA 91106, (3) QI and Compliance, Health Net of California, Inc., 21281 Burbank Blvd, Woodland Hills, CA 91367, (4) State Health Programs, Health Net of California, Inc., 21281 Burbank Blvd, Woodland Hills, CA 91367

Chlamydia and cervical cancer rates are on a steady increase, significantly among Hispanics and African Americans. Studies indicate screenings to be significantly lower among those who speak English as a second language. Primary care providers (PCPs) can have a great impact on prevention and early treatment of sexually transmitted diseases if informed and trained appropriately on screening guidelines and sexual history taking skills for diverse populations. In several recent studies, Los Angeles County Group Needs Assessment and a Health Net provider satisfaction survey, the need to be educated on how to address culturally diverse patients on sexual health issues was identified.

In an attempt to support PCP’s efforts to collect sexual health histories from diverse patients an educational program was designed and implemented. The goal of the program was to increase physician knowledge on screening guidelines and collecting sexual history from culturally diverse populations. One hundred Los Angeles County Health Net contracted Medi-Cal and Healthy Families PCPs participated in the program, which explored ways in which physicians can elicit a patient’s sexual history by using culturally effective communication strategies. During the 2-hour session, attendees learned about health screening guidelines and gained a better understanding of how cultural background, ethnicity, religion and language affect patient communication. To assess knowledge change, pre- and post-tests were administered. Results showed a statistically significant increase in knowledge, with a total percent improvement of 37%. A 6-months follow-up survey is now being implemented to assess knowledge retention among program participants.

Learning Objectives: "At the conclusion of the session, the participant (learner) will be able to

• Articulate the procedure for designing a physician educational program to increase knowledge on sexual health screenings among diverse populations."
• Describe at least one culturally appropriate approach to help meet chlamydia and cervical cancer practice guidelines."

Keywords: Cultural Competency, Communication

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.