Understanding Ethnic Diversity and Cultural Competency in American Healthcare

The United States is a melting pot of diverse ethnic groups, each with unique cultural backgrounds, health practices, and anatomical differences. For healthcare providers, understanding these differences is crucial in delivering culturally competent and effective care. This section introduces six major ethnic groups in America—White, Black, Hispanic/Latino, East Asian, Indian, and Native American/Pacific Islander—highlighting key anatomical distinctions and cultural practices. By adjusting their care strategies to accommodate these differences, healthcare professionals can enhance patient satisfaction, improve health outcomes, and reduce health disparities.

21%

40%

Identifies as racial or ethnic minority

Speaks language other than english

Ethnic Groups in America

White

60.1% of the US population is White

Black

13.4% of the US population is Black

Hispanic/Latino

18.5% of the US population is Hispanic

East Asian

3.6% of the US population is East Asian

Indian

1.4% of the US population is Indian

Native American/Pacific Islander

1.5%% of the US population is Native American/Pacific Islander

Religions

White ball on green concrete