Healthcare for Humans

In today's episode, we have a special treat for you as we recap the North American Refugee Health Conference (NARHC) held in Calgary, Canada. This conference, hosted by the Society of Refugee Healthcare Providers, brought together healthcare professionals, researchers, and community scholars to discuss and address the unique challenges refugees and immigrants face in accessing healthcare. Joining me today are a diverse group of guests, including Duncan Reid from the International Medicine Clinic, Rachel Talavlikar from the Mosaic Refugee Health Clinic, and representatives from the Community Scholars Program in Calgary. Together, we will dive into the key themes and takeaways from the conference, ranging from respecting Indigenous voices to the power of storytelling and healing through art. the importance of centering community voices and restructuring power and authoritybuilding strong connections within our communities. the experiences of internationally trained physiciansthe role of research in addressing healthcare disparitiesthe progress we've made in truth and reconciliation within the Canadian healthcare systemResources:National Resource Center for Refugees, Immigrants, and Migrants (NRC-RIM)EthnomedRefugee Health YYCTimestamp:[00:05:58] Progress in truth and reconciliation in Canada[00:14:25] Talks contrast deep pain and healing process.[00:19:26] Recognizing the value of internationally trained healthcare workers.[00:22:24] Refugee review board offers research consultation.[00:27:19] Language's power on refugee status realization.[00:37:01] Hire diverse community scholars for successful research.[00:39:47] Finding hope in overwhelming times is vital.

James Achuli is a refugee student studying International Relations at the University of British Columbia. He first arrived in Calgary, Canada in February 2022 as a refugee. At the immigration office, James was asked about his identity and where he came from. He shared his experiences of being born during the civil war in Sudan, growing up as an internally displaced person, and witnessing the destruction caused by war. Despite the hardships, James was determined to receive an education and received a scholarship to further his studies. He faced another war in South Sudan in 2016, where he witnessed the death of a friend and was then taken by armed men. With the help of a kind woman, James managed to escape and joined a group of refugees walking towards safety in Uganda. Eventually, he arrived at a refugee camp and faced the daily challenges and struggles that refugees endure. James acknowledges the difficulties faced by refugees, such as forced displacement, persecution, and lack of basic necessities. Through his experiences, he strives to shed light on the struggles faced by refugees and advocate for their rights and better opportunities.

In this episode of "Healthcare for Humans" from the North American Refugee Conference, Dr. Raj Sundar records guest Boban Sojanovic, a Serbian Canadian peace and LGBTQ+ human activist, to share his incredible journey of resilience and hope. BBoban faced death threats in his homeland and had to flee to Canada, where he dealt with melanoma and the suicide of his father. Through poetry and therapy, Boban found healing and transformed his pain into a source of strength. Dr. Sundar emphasizes the importance of listening and bearing witness to the stories of refugees and trauma survivors while highlighting Boban's four powerful life lessons: embracing life's circumstances, celebrating personal transformation, recognizing the abundance of love and understanding in the world, and holding on to hope amidst challenges.

This episode features Dr. Suzanne Barakat, a family physician and executive director of the Health and Human Rights Initiative at the University of California, San Francisco. Dr. Barakat shares her experiences and expertise in working with refugees, asylum seekers, and stateless persons, shedding light on the terminology, history, and challenges these marginalized communities face. She emphasizes the importance of storytelling to create empathy and change, discussing the emotional toll on storytellers and encouraging listeners to reflect on their own perceptions. The episode also addresses actionable steps that individuals can take to support refugees and marginalized communities.Watch the White Helmet documentary on Netflix Listen to the Reveal podcast to dive deeper Support the Health and Human Rights Initiative and Society of Refugee Healthcare ProvidersGet trained Asylum Medicine Training Initiative, or AMTI, trains clinicians how to do forensic medical evaluations.

Aliyah Haq is an experienced registered dietitian with a career spanning 25 years. As the former president of Nutrition First, a prominent public health organization, she spearheaded a nationwide program emphasizing the importance of holistic nutrition education. In this episode of "Healthcare for Humans," host Dr. Raj Sundar and guest Aliyah Haq delve into the topic of culturally sensitive nutrition counseling. They stress the importance of building trust and understanding with patients, acknowledging the significance of food in their lives. The speakers share personal stories and experiences, highlighting the power of trust in making a difference in patients' health. They discuss the different approaches to nutrition advice depending on culture and emphasize the need to tailor recommendations to fit individual food habits and preferences. The episode also explores the challenges and strategies in pediatric nutrition counseling, particularly in addressing childhood obesity. Listeners are encouraged to embrace their cultural food traditions while making positive changes for chronic diseases and promoting health and physical activity in children.[00:05:01] Conversation, not commands, for effective communication.[00:06:56] Culture influences food choices, including religious practices.[00:10:05] Food choice impacts well-being, self-control, and satisfaction.[00:13:19] Culture impacts portion sizes. Ask about eating habits.[00:18:10] You control your body; take care.[00:21:43] Pediatric nutrition strategy: cultural differences and obesity.[00:27:12] Patient food history guides friendly, rapport-building conversations.[00:32:05] Trusting dietitians with patients' health is crucial.[00:35:12] Challenging situation leads to successful trust-building.

Join me, Dr. Raj Sundar, and my colleague Maha Razzaki, as we navigate the complex terrain of cultural competence, humility, and safety in healthcare. Listen in as we delve into the differences between these concepts and their impact on providing culturally responsive care. Maha shares her experiences as a Program Manager for a Member Equity, Inclusion, and Diversity Program, and we discuss the importance of listening to diverse community voices to build meaningful connections. In this discussion, we take an in-depth look at cultural humility, a practice that can move us beyond cultural competency. We discuss the model minority myth and its erasure effect on the challenges that Asian Americans face. We also talk about understanding the power dynamics between clinicians and patients and how cultural humility can help build rapport. We also examine the complexities of identity and discuss the role of cultural safety in healthcare. Lastly, we touch on the difficulty of speaking up against a power dynamic in healthcare and why it's crucial to recognize and appreciate one another's contributions to the healthcare system.(0:00:00) - Cultural Competence and Humility in Healthcare (10 Minutes)We explore the differences between cultural competence, cultural humility, cultural safety and the dizzying number of terms to define culturally responsive care. We also explore the layers of identity we all hold and how to redefine these concepts to serve our needs better. Maha Rezaki joins me to discuss her journey of becoming a Program Manager for a Member Equity, Inclusion and Diversity Program. We also talk about the importance of listening to diverse community voices to understand them better and build more meaningful connections.(0:09:34) - Cultural Competency and Cultural Humility (9 Minutes)We discuss how cultural humility is a practice that moves us beyond cultural competency. We explore the array of terms used to define culturally responsive care and the importance of centering diverse communities' voices and lived experiences. Additionally, we examine how the model minority myth can lead to erasure and invisibility of struggles that Asian Americans face and how to ask questions to get to the root of an issue.(0:18:23) - Understanding Identity and Cultural Sensitivity (13 Minutes)We explore the concept of identity, discussing how each of us holds an individual, group, and collective identity. The importance of understanding different cultural backgrounds, the power dynamics between clinicians and patients, and how cultural humility can help build rapport are discussed. Additionally, the concept of patterns and power in the context of cultural safety is explored.(0:31:22) - Stereotypes and Growth in Clinical Settings (3 Minutes)We investigate the effects of stereotypes on individuals and the implications for clinicians and their patients. We consider the challenges of creating a safe environment where patients feel comfortable to speak up about their experiences and explore how cultural humility can help foster a culture of open feedback and growth. Additionally, we explore the complexities of identity and the importance of understanding the differences between individual, group, and collective identity.(0:34:42) - Creating Cultural Safety in Healthcare (6 Minutes)We talk about how our sense of purpose drives us and how mindfulness of muddita and karuna can help us strive for healthcare betterment. We consider the fear of being canceled and the fear of litigation, and how they can lead to defensiveness. We explore how understanding the context of a patient's life and experiences can help to create cultural safety not only for them, but also for our colleagues. Finally, we discuss tools that can help us to foster cultural safety and...

When I first met Dr. Ponce Gonzalez, I was struck by her passion for the Latinx community and her dedication to making a difference in their lives. In today's episode, I had the privilege of sitting down with her to discuss the unique challenges Latina workers face in the healthcare system and the complexities of the Latinx community. As the founder and executive director of the Community Health Worker Coalition for Migrants and Refugees, Dr. Ponce shared her story of being born in Nicaragua, the importance of education, and the impact accents have on Latinas in the professional world.We delved into the power dynamic between doctors and patients and the concept of being proximate to understand better and support marginalized communities. Dr. Ponce emphasized the crucial role of establishing trust and connection between clinicians and patients, especially for Latinx communities who are often undocumented or face various healthcare access barriers. We also explored how the current system can lead to a health crisis for both documented and undocumented Latinx individuals.Lastly, we touched on the need for tailored care models and language support for the Latinx community, and the incredible value of a community health worker familiar with the culture and able to provide peer support. I challenge all of our listeners to actively work against any biases, including language or accent bias, and strive to create inclusive workplaces where every voice is heard and respected. Join us in this important conversation and learn from Dr. Ponce Gonzalez's insight and experience as we work together to improve healthcare access and equity for the Latinx community.--------- EPISODE CHAPTERS WITH SHORT KEY POINTS ---------(0:00:01) - Caring for Undocumented Latinx Communities (14 Minutes)We explore the complexities of the Latina community and the unique challenges Latina workers face in the healthcare system. How can community health workers bridge the gap in healthcare access? What is our moral obligation to care for one another? We discuss the concept of being proximate and how it can help us understand the experiences of those who are marginalized and excluded from society. Dr Ponce Gonzales, the founder and executive director of the Community Health Worker Coalition for Migrants and Refugees, shares her story of being born in Nicaragua and the importance of getting an education. We also talk about the impact of accents in the Latina community and how it often leads to people disregarding or challenging their expertise and knowledge. Finally, I challenge listeners to actively work to counteract any bias, including language or accent bias, and to establish an environment where every voice is heard and respected in their workplace.(0:13:57) - Relationships in Healthcare Disparities (11 Minutes)We examine the effects of a hierarchical power structure where people obey doctors without question. We emphasize the significance of forming a bond between the clinician and the patient and the necessity of context-based cultures to enable this relationship. We also analyze the system's impact on documented and undocumented Latinx communities and how this can lead to a health crisis.(0:24:50) - Latinx Workers and Health Challenges (7 Minutes)We discuss the challenges faced by Latinx workers and the difficulty they have accessing resources. We look at how the power structure of the healthcare system can lead to exploitation and humiliation. We explore how the exploitation of migrant workers can lead to criminalizing their status, even when they are not criminals. We consider the importance of providing support to Latina mothers facing perinatal depression and how this can benefit their children. Lastly, we examine the unique set of challenges construction workers face and how this relates to the Latinx...

How can we make sense of suffering and create meaning in our lives through illness narratives? Join us as we welcome our special guest Odette, a family medicine physician who specializes in caring for the Latinx community, particularly undocumented individuals. In this captivating conversation, Odette shares her personal experiences with illness narratives in Guatemala and how this approach has shaped her practice in medicine.We dive into the complexities of providing care for undocumented individuals, exploring the importance of relationship-building with the Latinx community. Odette shares insights on how to talk about intimate partner violence with patients who are undocumented and how Susto, a cultural belief in the cause of illness, plays a part in their understanding of their disease. Together, we uncover valuable strategies for providing culturally responsive care in these challenging situations.Lastly, we discuss the realities of caring for undocumented patients and how medical professionals can advocate for them on both an individual and system level. Odette emphasizes the need for cultivating hope as an art and skill, and reminds us that even if we may not feel like we are making system-level change, our work can still make a difference for a single patient. Don't miss this thought-provoking and heartwarming conversation on illness narratives and the intricacies of caring for the undocumented Latinx community.--------- EPISODE CHAPTERS ---------(0:00:00) - Culture and Health Narratives(0:16:25) - Illness Narratives and Undocumented Healthcare(0:25:45) - Undocumented Mothers' Fear and Healthcare Access(0:31:11) - Building Trust and Safety in Healthcare(0:43:53) - Advocacy for Undocumented Patients(0:47:33) - Medical Advocacy and Activism--------- EPISODE CHAPTERS WITH SHORT KEY POINTS ---------(0:00:00) - Culture and Health NarrativesOdette discusses illness narratives, Susto, and intimate partner violence with undocumented patients.(0:16:25) - Illness Narratives and Undocumented HealthcareOdette shares her experience with illness narratives, creating a space for someone to tell their story, and the importance of relationship building with the Latinx community.(0:25:45) - Undocumented Mothers' Fear and Healthcare AccessUndocumented mothers, cultural barriers, language barriers, sexism, pathways to citizenship, legal benefits, medical education, and creating safe spaces are discussed.(0:31:11) - Building Trust and Safety in HealthcareOdette shares strategies to build trusting relationships, normalize conversation, create a safe space, acknowledge documentation status without judgement, and avoid writing sensitive information.(0:43:53) - Advocacy for Undocumented PatientsOdette advocates for undocumented patients, building trusting relationships to ensure they receive care.(0:47:33) - Medical Advocacy and ActivismOdette emphasizes cultivating hope, advocating for healthcare on a personal level, and making a difference for one patient.

Join us for an insightful conversation with Tagoipah, a second-generation Cham refugee from the greater Seattle area. Tagoipah shares the important distinction between refugees and immigrants and how their families and community were forced to flee Southeast Asia during the Vietnam War and the Khmer Rouge era. We also explore the rich history and identity of the Cham people, an indigenous minority group from Southeast Asia, and how their long history has been shaped by various empires and assimilation.Listen in as we discuss the intersectionality of Cham identity, particularly how being a minority within another minority group can shape one's experience. Tagoipahshares their upbringing in a diverse community in South Seattle, surrounded by East African, Somali, and Asian communities, and how that allowed them to connect with their culture. We also examine the power dynamics in various communities and the importance of understanding and acknowledging our history.This episode delves into the challenges of navigating the healthcare system as a Cham refugee and the cultural gap between healthcare providers and the Cham community. We explore the crucial role of interpreters in bridging this gap and the need for teaching patients to ask questions and seek second opinions. Finally, we touch upon the impact of cultural crossover in diverse communities and the importance of honoring autonomy when it comes to identity. Join us for this enlightening and engaging discussion with Tagoipahabout the Cham community, identity, and navigating the complexities of healthcare and social justice.--------- EPISODE CHAPTERS ---------Cham Refugees and Charm PeopleCham Identity and ErasureNavigating Intersectional Identity Identity, Power, and Cham TraditionTraditional Cham Wedding and Community ContributionsNavigating Healthcare as a RefugeeCultural Interpretation of Health Improving Cultural Understanding in Healthcare Healthcare and Social JusticeRecognizing Cultural Crossover in Communities--------- EPISODE CHAPTERS WITH SHORT KEY POINTS ---------Cham Refugees and Charm PeopleI discuss my identity as a Cham refugee, the difference between refugees and immigrants, and Cham's history. Cham Identity and ErasureCham people are a minority in Vietnam, Cambodia, and Malaysia, combining Islam with traditional beliefs; the identity of a second-generation refugee; knowledge is key to understanding cultural identity.Navigating Intersectional IdentityGrowing up in a diverse South Seattle community, I experienced how minority identity shapes one's identity.Identity, Power, and Cham TraditionAutonomy, minority within a minority, Ethiopian community, Asian Muslims, and oppression of communities of color were discussed.Traditional Cham Wedding and Community ContributionsCham culture's weddings, food, clothing, and hijabs are a blend of Southeast Asian and Islamic cultures. Navigating Healthcare as a RefugeeNavigating healthcare as a Cham refugee, advocating for family, and reliance on technology are discussed.Cultural Interpretation of HealthBridge cultural gap between healthcare providers and Cham community, understand patient's interpretation of health, language barriers, holistic health, autonomy, and identity. Improving Cultural Understanding in HealthcareInterpreters bridge cultural gap between healthcare providers and Cham patients, respecting cultural identity, specific language, and power dynamics.Healthcare and Social JusticeAutonomy,...

In this episode, we dive deep into the Afro-Latino Latinx identity, as experienced by Sandra Huber from Panama to the United States, where her identity shifted from being simply Panamanian to being labeled as Hispanic, Latina, and eventually Afro-Latina. We discuss the challenges of navigating racial and coloristic oppression within Indian and Latin American communities, as well as within broader American society. We also touch on the importance of acknowledging and accepting one's blackness and the complex racial dynamics that exist within the community. We explore the experiences of being Afro-Latina in predominantly white neighborhoods and the impact on mental health. Sandra shares her personal encounters with racial profiling and the assumptions made about her by some white community members. We also discuss the Hispanic paradox, which does not apply to Afro-Latinos, and the need for healthcare providers to be more culturally aware and curious about their patients' backgrounds. Finally, we delve into the power of intentional curiosity, particularly in the medical field. Being open to asking questions and avoiding assumptions can lead to better care and more accurate diagnoses. This conversation emphasizes the need for empathy and genuine interest in the diverse backgrounds of patients. Join us as we explore the complexities of Afro-Latino Latinx identity and the importance of understanding and embracing one's unique heritage.Chapters:(0:00:07) - Afro Latino Identity(0:17:00) - Navigating Racial and Coloristic Oppression(0:25:49) - Navigating Discrimination(0:35:12) - Acknowledging Afro-Latino Identity in Healthcare(0:50:45) - The Power of Intentional CuriosityChapter Summaries:(0:00:07) - Afro Latino Identity (17 Minutes)In this podcast episode, we explore the Afro-Latino Latinx identity through the experiences of Sandra Solano Huer, who was born and raised in Panama City, Panama. Sandra discusses her journey from Panama to the United States, where her identity shifted from being simply Panamanian to being labeled as Hispanic, Latina, and eventually Afro-Latina. She shares her experiences with people asking "what are you?" and how she navigates these questions with patience and understanding.(0:17:00) - Navigating Racial and Coloristic Oppression (9 Minutes)In this part of the conversation, we delve into the impact of colorism and racial dynamics within the Indian and Latin American communities, as well as within broader American society. The discussion touches on personal experiences of feeling excluded or treated differently due to skin color, as well as the implications of marrying someone lighter-skinned for upward mobility and safety. We also explore how racism and colorism can affect mental and physical health, and the importance of being aware of these issues to make informed decisions about one's identity and life choices'(0:25:49) - Navigating Discrimination (9 Minutes)We discuss the challenges and intricacies of embracing black identity within the Latino community and the various terms used to describe mixed ancestry. We also touch on how black identity does not contradict Latino identity and how the Afro-Latino population faces higher rates of poverty and discrimination compared to other Latino groups. Through personal anecdotes, we explore the importance of acknowledging and accepting one's blackness and the complex racial dynamics that exist within the community(0:35:12) - Acknowledging Afro-Latino Identity in Healthcare (16 Minutes)In this portion of the episode, we examine the experiences of being Afro-Latina in predominantly white neighborhoods and the impact on mental health. Sandra shares her personal encounters with racial profiling and the assumptions made...

In this episode, I share the inspiring journey of Dr. Duran, a family medicine resident who immigrated to the US from Mexico at the age of 14. Despite facing obstacles such as being undocumented and not having a Social Security number, Dr. Duran pursued higher education with the help of supportive individuals like her high school teacher, Mrs. Holland. We delve into the challenges Dr. Duran faced in financing her medical education and navigating the DACA program, as well as the impact it has on her mental health and career. We also discuss the importance of being curious and respectful when interacting with colleagues who may have experiences related to DACA. Join me in this thought-provoking conversation that sheds light on the resilience and determination of DACA recipients like Dr. Duran, who continue to contribute to their communities and the healthcare profession.Chapters:(0:00:00) - Achieving a Career in Medicine(0:13:44) - Navigating DACA and Med School(0:25:51) - DACA Impact on Mental Health(0:34:48) - DACA's Mental Health Impact(0:42:08) - Be Curious and Respectful of Colleagues Chapter Summaries:(0:00:00) - Achieving a Career in Medicine (14 Minutes)In this podcast episode, we discuss the journey of Dr. Duran, a family medicine resident who immigrated to the US from Mexico at the age of 14. Despite facing obstacles such as not having a Social Security number and being undocumented, Dr. Duran pursued higher education with the help of supportive individuals like her high school teacher, Mrs. Holland. Dr. Duran's interest in medicine was sparked by witnessing the health disparities in Southeast Georgia, particularly among the immigrant community.(0:13:44) - Navigating DACA and Med School (12 Minutes)We delve into the challenges faced by Dr. Duran in financing her medical education due to her immigration status and limited financial resources. Through persistence and support from organizations like the Resurrection Project, she was able to obtain a loan and attend medical school. We also discuss the uncertainty and stress surrounding the renewal of her DACA status, which directly impacts her ability to continue her residency and work as a doctor. Despite these obstacles, Dr. Duran remains determined to excel in her profession and contribute to her community as a family medicine physician'(0:25:51) - DACA Impact on Mental Health (9 Minutes)We explore the impact of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program on Dr. Duran's life and career, allowing her to fulfill her intellectual goals and become a doctor. The conversation also addresses the anxiety and vulnerability faced by DACA recipients due to the program's uncertain future and the fact that the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services has all their personal information. Dr. Duran discusses her decision to be open and vocal about her immigration status, as well as the intergenerational effects of policies like DACA on recipients' children.(0:34:48) - DACA's Mental Health Impact (7 Minutes)We examine the history and limitations of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program and its effects on recipients like Dr. Duran. With over 800,000 DACA recipients and 1.3 million people living with a DACA recipient in the United States, the consequences of ending the program would be far-reaching. Despite providing temporary relief, DACA has significant constraints, such as no clear path to citizenship, limited travel permissions, and challenges in obtaining mortgages. Additionally, since July 2021, no new DACA applications have been accepted, and processing times for renewals can cause applicants to lose their status.(0:42:08) - Be Curious and Respectful of Colleagues (1 Minute)We emphasize...

In this episode of Healthcare for Humans, we talked to Dr. Garcia again and delve into the often-overlooked history of Mexican immigration in the United States and its connection to the labor market. From desperate times to discriminatory attitudes, we uncover the complex story of Mexican immigrants and their contributions to the country's workforce. We explore the structural causes that have shaped their history and highlight the need for accessible, safe, and responsive healthcare for all communities.Explain the historical roots of Mexico, including its indigenous civilizations and colonization by Hernan Cortes, leading to its independence from Spain in 1821.Discuss the impact of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo in 1848, which resulted in Mexicans suddenly living in the US due to land becoming part of the US.Review various programs and events encouraging Mexican immigration to the US from the 1840s to the 1960s, including the Bracero program and the Mexican Revolution.Explore the portrayal of Mexicans in the media and politicization of immigration, highlighting the rich history and contributions of Mexicans to society, and the unique experiences of Mexican Americans and other Latino groups in the US.Next Steps:Sign up on Healthcare for Humans website to join our communitySubscribe and share this episode to help clinicians care for diverse communities betterFollow Raj on Twitter

Dr. Jerry Garcia is a professor at Texas Christian University with expertise in teaching Chicano/Latino Studies, US History, and Mexican History. He was previously the Vice President for Educational Programs at Sea Mar Museum, where he curated the new Sea Mar Museum of Chicano/a/Latino/a Culture in Seattle, WA. His deep commitment to promoting education, diversity, and inclusion has made a positive impact on the educational landscape and beyond. Daniel Joaquin Padron is a Community Health Educator in Spokane, WA. As a first-generation college graduate with a degree in Public Health, he is passionate about promoting health equity and social justice for underserved communities. He has experience working with low socioeconomic status populations and resettling refugees. After listening to this episode you will be able to:Explain the experience of growing up in a small town and the challenges of navigating identityDescribe the historical roots of the terms Hispanic, Latino, Latinx, and Chicano and how they evolved over timeList the different factors that contribute to the use of certain terminology, including politics, culture, and personal preferenceReview how the terms reflect self-determination and autonomy in defining one's own identityExplore the intersectionality of identity and the importance of recognizing and respecting diverse experiences within the Hispanic/Latinx communityDiscuss the implications of using certain terminology in society and the importance of staying informed and culturally sensitive.Next Steps:Sign up on Healthcare for Humans website to join our communitySubscribe and share this episode to help clinicians care for diverse communities betterFollow Raj on Twitter