title: Relevance of linguistic and cultural training among non-clinical personnel at the University of Mississippi Medical Center: a qualitative study.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  An academic medical center presents a unique environment where non-clinical staff provide vital services to a cross-section of people. A medical Spanish course was offered to a non-clinical department, campus police, in response to the growing number of Hispanics or Latinos seeking care within the health center.
  
  
  METHODS
  In October 2007, a structured group discussion with six course participants was convened at the end of the Occupational Spanish course, using a topic guide to direct the conversation.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Content analysis revealed that participation in the course: (1) increased interest and provided a model for other departments, (2) promoted ability to respond, (3) enhanced cultural and linguistic competence, and (4) increased confidence, effectiveness, and value in their work.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Structured cultural and linguistic training within an academic health center can contribute to a safe, secure environment, a more competent, responsive workforce, and enhance services to limited English proficient (LEP) patients.
authors.forename: Christianne M
authors.initials: CM
authors.lastname: Pinell-Jansen
authors.forename: Chris Anne Rodgers
authors.initials: CA
authors.lastname: Arthur
authors.forename: Susan
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Hart-Hester
mesh_terms: D000046:Academic Medical Centers; D000328:Adult; D054521:Cultural Competency; D005260:Female; D006282:Health Personnel / Q000193:education*; D006801:Humans; D007318:Inservice Training; D008037:Linguistics; D008297:Male; D008922:Mississippi