Day Six: Lessons Beyond the Chart

 Day 6: Cultural Awareness

How did I demonstrate respect for cultural differences? Did I encounter any ethical tensions? If so, how did I process them? What biases or assumptions became visible to me? What did I learn about delivering care with limited resources? How did this experience expand my understanding of health disparities? What will I now question differently in my own community clinical settings?

    I demonstrated respect for cultural differences to the best of my abilities throughout the entirety of our trip. I quickly realized and especially through conversations with our translators realized that the Panamanian people appreciated when people wanted to learn more about their culture and their language. Once I knew that it was not only acceptable to do so but even encouraged, I asked questions as often as possible. This lead to great connections and conversations with many people, and led to a great deal of learning throughout my trip.

    As far as encountering direct ethical tensions I think the main "tension" I noticed happened when comparing differences among our lifestyle in American and the lifestyle and culture here in Panama. When these conversations happened, I processed the information by recognizing how lucky we truly are, and reflecting on habits I may be able to change in my own lifestyle in consideration of these differences. I think some biases and assumptions I noticed included assuming that the people of Panama may not be welcoming right away due to us approaching, being new different people, and not speaking their language fluently. I quickly realized that the attitudes and patience in the Panamanian people is much different than people at home. Yes people took time to warm up to us at times, but in general the people were always appreciative, welcoming, and caring. 

    From delivering care to people with limited resources, it made me realize that great care is still possible. This also led me to realize how wasteful we are in the United States. I think this trip taught me that when health disparities are present and continuing, the level of care, work, and effort to stop them just continues to get more and more difficult. We say many examples of people neglecting serious health issues due to limited resources, financial stress, and lack of education which just causes issues to continue, in not increase. 

    Because of this experience I will now always question my own reactions, beliefs, and attitudes when receiving care in my own community medical settings. I will remain more patient and understanding in appreciation of the care so easily accessible at home, remembering that it is not so easy to come by for many others.