This reflection article shares insight from an immigrant who initially struggled with cultural differences between South Korea and the USA. Through his personal experiences and anecdotes from cross-cultural training, the author describes the importance of cultural competency to effectively communicate and treat diverse patient populations in the USA. Encouraging cultural discussions to recognize obvious and subtle cultural differences may help providers become better advocates for patients.
Keywords: API; Asian; Barriers; Cancer; Cultural competency; Disparities; Pacific Islander; Public health.
© 2022. The Author(s).