Improving Nutrition Care in Hispanic Communities Through Cultural Competency and Bilingual Providers

Faculty Mentor

Encarnación Cruz Jimenez

Location

Russell Union Ballroom

Type of Research

On-going

Session Format

Poster Presentation

College

College of Arts & Humanities

Department

World Languages and Cultures

Abstract

The Hispanic population in the United States is growing rapidly, and currently represents approximately one-fifth of the population, with Spanish as the second most spoken language. Despite this growth, language and cultural barriers continue to limit access to healthcare and nutrition services, contributing to the prevalence of chronic disease in Hispanic communities. Hispanics are also underrepresented among healthcare providers, including dietitians, further limiting access to culturally and linguistically appropriate care. This study examines the availability of culturally sensitive, Spanish-language health and nutrition resources in Southeast Georgia. Potential barriers within the community were examined using the Social Determinants of Health framework. Data was collected using semi-structured interviews with healthcare providers and experiential insights from leading a community-based bilingual nutrition class. Results were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. This study assesses language support, identifies gaps in culturally competent care, and explores strategies to improve outcomes through bilingual and culturally tailored nutrition services.

Program Description

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Start Date

4-23-2026 10:00 AM

End Date

4-23-2026 12:00 PM

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Apr 23rd, 10:00 AM Apr 23rd, 12:00 PM

Improving Nutrition Care in Hispanic Communities Through Cultural Competency and Bilingual Providers

Russell Union Ballroom

The Hispanic population in the United States is growing rapidly, and currently represents approximately one-fifth of the population, with Spanish as the second most spoken language. Despite this growth, language and cultural barriers continue to limit access to healthcare and nutrition services, contributing to the prevalence of chronic disease in Hispanic communities. Hispanics are also underrepresented among healthcare providers, including dietitians, further limiting access to culturally and linguistically appropriate care. This study examines the availability of culturally sensitive, Spanish-language health and nutrition resources in Southeast Georgia. Potential barriers within the community were examined using the Social Determinants of Health framework. Data was collected using semi-structured interviews with healthcare providers and experiential insights from leading a community-based bilingual nutrition class. Results were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. This study assesses language support, identifies gaps in culturally competent care, and explores strategies to improve outcomes through bilingual and culturally tailored nutrition services.