"Diversity is not about how we differ. Diversity is about embracing one another's uniqueness."
- Ola Joseph
Meeting the Needs of our Diverse Community
Sentara RMH Medical Center's goal is to ensure that all patients are cared for in a way that is appropriate to their language and cultural needs.
As our organization works to become more culturally responsive, we continue to reach out to our community members and learn about the cultural, religious and other beliefs/values that should be taken into consideration when providing health care.
We Listen to You
Through our cultural diversity program, we work together as a team with you, the patient, to ensure your beliefs regarding health and illness are being met. When providing care to our patients, we take into account the patients:
- Race, ethnicity
- Language
- Gender, age
- Religion
- Sexual orientation, family structure
- Physical and mental disabilities
- Socioeconomic status
Our program is designed to deliver culturally appropriate care and create a welcoming environment for all our patients, regardless of their differences, disabilities or knowledge of the English language.
Let Us Know Your Needs
Sentara RMH needs your help to better understand your needs when you visit our hospital or any of our health centers.
We provide:
Communication Needs
Free interpretation services and adaptive equipment for non-English speakers, deaf patients and/or their families If you would like to have an interpreter, please let our staff know.
Resources
Health-related and pertinent to your cultural needs
Referrals to other Sentara RMH services and community agencies
Community Events
Health screenings, seminars and workshops are offered by Sentara RMH periodically throughout the year. Attend these events and tell us if there are ways to improve our attention to your needs. While you're a patient with Sentara RMH, be sure to let staff know about any cultural needs you may have.
For more information about the Sentara RMH cultural diversity initiative, call 540-689-1180.
Diversity in Healthcare Scholarship Program
To improve diversity and cultural competence at Sentara RMH Medical Center, the Diversity in Healthcare scholarship program has been created to support local youth from diverse backgrounds who are interested in pursing a career in health care.