H.J.R. 4 Enrolled

RESOLUTION ENCOURAGING CULTURAL
COMPETENCY IN THE DELIVERY OF
HEALTH CARE
2002 GENERAL SESSION
STATE OF UTAH
Sponsor: Judy Ann Buffmire
A joint resolution of the Legislature encouraging the Utah Department of Health to identify
and promote culturally competent health care to Utah's diverse populations.
Be it resolved by the Legislature of the state of Utah:
WHEREAS, the number of ethnic and cultural minorities living in Utah has increased
significantly in recent years;
WHEREAS, cultural differences can introduce significant barriers to the delivery of
effective health care;
WHEREAS, health disparities between cultural and ethnic groups occur in the state of
Utah;
WHEREAS, the shortage of ethnic and cultural minority providers practicing in the state
of Utah and the lack of training and institutional support for the provision of culturally competent
care further contribute to disparities of access to care; and
WHEREAS, the cultural differences in expectations and attitudes toward health care and
wellness influence the delivery and use of health care services:
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Legislature of the state of Utah urge the
Department of Health to identify and promote culturally competent delivery of health care,
soliciting and integrating the input of representatives from diverse communities, health care
providers, administrators, and insurers throughout the state.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Legislature urge the Department of Health to
disseminate information throughout the state regarding the delivery of culturally competent health
care in a concise and understandable format and to promote ongoing access to resources and tools
for implementation to the extent funding permits.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Legislature urge the Department of Health to work

cooperatively, as funding permits, through jointly sponsored educational programs, publications, and
other outreach efforts, with health care providers, administrators, and insurers to encourage the
adoption and use of culturally competent practices in the delivery of health care throughout the state.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Legislature urge community outreach programs to
continue their efforts to involve the minority communities in the process to promote cultural
competency in the delivery of health care.

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