The healthcare industry in Australia plays an integral role in ensuring health care quality and equality in the country is maintained. As such, it is necessary to monitor the performance of health systems continuously. It goes a long way in helping policymakers and practitioners deliver effective, efficient, and appropriate care for their clients. According to recent statistics, Australia's health system performance has been commendable over the last few years. For instance, the number of general physician services per person has risen by 8% over the previous five years. Despite these results, most health care facilities still grapple with understanding why multicultural health care is mandatory. Therefore, this article highlights why it is critical for health care facilities to integrate cultural competence. 

Globalisation -- For the health practitioners, the pursuit of patient-centred care in the current multicultural society means that you must have a different set of skills. Part of these skills is the ability to understand and appreciate the different cultures represented by various groups and populations. For instance, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, Australia granted 178,000 permanent visas to migrants in 2017 and 2018. The people are from different cultures and will be expected to help grow Australia's economy. The health care system can only offer quality and appropriate service to such a multicultural society if the practitioners learn and exhibit cultural competence. Therefore, failure to integrate cultural diversity in the health care system can have a devastating ripple effect. 

Changing Concept of Health and Illness -- Today, it is much more challenging to respond to personal needs and, at the same time, be culturally sensitive. For instance, acupuncture has been a long-standing Chinese practice, and its health benefits are not disputed. The practice relieves pain from muscles to digestive issues. However, it is only recently that acupuncture found its way into mainstream health care, and this has forced health care practitioners to learn about the benefits. That said, not every patient will approve of acupuncture since they believe the only way to relieve pain is by taking medication. Therefore, understanding the beliefs and values of every patient is vital to planning care that works regardless of perception. 

Growing Health and Medical Industry -- Australia's health and medical industry has been growing over the last few years. The reputation has led to some practitioners taking healthcare-related positions in facilities in other countries. It means that these practitioners have to work under different cultural settings, and they must be prepared for that. The growth of the industry, therefore, calls for the need for cultural integration in the country's health system. It will go a long way in preparing health practitioners for future opportunities in other cultural settings.

For more information, contact a medical centre that focusses on multicultural health care.

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