Nurses endorse migrant and refugee competency standards framework

The Australian College of Nursing (ACN) welcomes today’s launch of a clinical framework outlining best practice in providing cultural responsiveness for patients from migrant and refugee backgrounds.

The ‘Culturally responsive clinical practice: Working with people from migrant and refugee backgrounds’ Competency Standards Framework for Clinicians (the Framework) was developed by the Migrant and Refugee Women’s Health Partnership, with ACN providing input in extensive consultation with nurses from across the country.

“Differences in quality and access to health care still exist within Australia. Many refugees and migrants face significant physical and mental health challenges through experiencing hardships and inequities,” said Australian College of Nursing CEO Adjunct Professor Kylie Ward FACN.

“The Framework will provide clinicians with a comprehensive guide to deliver culturally responsive clinical practice and advice for health care professionals, including nurses.”

ACN is a member of the Migrant and Refugee Women’s Health Partnership and supports the provision of accessible and culturally appropriate care within all health care settings.

“ACN looks forward to its utilisation to continue improving health outcomes for migrants and refugees,” said Adjunct Professor Ward.

“ACN will continue to consult with our expert Fellows and Members to determine how nurses can assist in addressing health disparities by working with governments and health providers around Australia.

“Everyone, everywhere deserves timely access to culturally appropriate health care when they need it.”

A full copy of the ACN submission to the Migrant and Refugee Women’s Health Partnership is available here.

/Public Release. View in full here.