Bridging the Access Gap: How Nurses Can Support AAPI Patients Through Inclusive Care

Did you know the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community is the fastest-growing ethnic group in the United States? It’s also one of the most diverse in the country, encompassing a variety of ethnicities, languages, histories and cultural practices.  

This rich diversity also brings unique healthcare challenges, such as language barriers, cultural differences, and health disparities. As our healthcare system becomes increasingly diverse, nurses stand at the forefront, not only delivering medical care but also offering the respect, understanding, and empathy that builds trust and fosters healing. 

Nurses have a powerful role in breaking down barriers and providing care that celebrates the individuality of every AAPI patient. By embracing cultural competence and promoting inclusivity, nurses can profoundly impact their AAPI patients' lives—enhancing both health outcomes and trust in the healthcare system. 

Understanding AAPI Healthcare Barriers 

Asian American and Pacific Islander patients often face unique healthcare disparities and barriers that can affect their access to quality care. Some common challenges include: 

• Language Barriers: Nearly 32% of Asian Americans in the United States have limited English proficiency. This can make it difficult to understand medical information, communicate symptoms, or follow treatment plans, especially for older adults or recent immigrants.
• Health Disparities: AAPI populations are at higher risk for certain conditions, such as diabetes, hepatitis B, and specific cancers. However, due to limited representation in research, Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders are often grouped as a single category. This failure to disaggregate health data among different subgroups overlooks critical differences in health disparities, leading to gaps in care and potentially inaccurate treatment.
• Stigma: The “model minority” stereotype and mental health stigma within AAPI communities leads to underreporting and a lack of treatment for conditions like depression and anxiety.
• Healthcare Mistrust: Historical instances of discrimination and unequal treatment may result in a reluctance to seek healthcare.

Understanding these challenges is the first step toward providing care that meets the needs of AAPI patients and addresses the barriers that prevent them from receiving equitable care. 

Culturally Competent Strategies for Nurses 

To effectively support AAPI patients, nurses must be culturally competent and sensitive to their unique needs; something that is critically important and an integral part of Herzing’s overall nursing curriculum. Some strategies to help nurses deliver compassionate, individualized care include: 

• Respecting Cultural Practices: Every patient brings with them a rich cultural heritage that may influence how they view health and healing, such as traditional remedies, dietary preferences, or family-centered decision-making. Nurses should ask open-ended questions about their patients’ cultural preferences and incorporate them into care plans.
• Breaking Down Language Barriers: To ensure clear communication, nurses can use professional interpreters or language translation services when needed. Providing educational materials in a patient's preferred language can also improve understanding and adherence to treatment plans.
• Building Trust Through Empathy: A key part of culturally competent care is establishing trust. Nurses should take time to listen and create a safe space for AAPI patients to express their concerns. Showing empathy and respect for cultural differences can help reduce fears and hesitations about seeking care.
• Addressing Healthcare Disparities: Nurses should be aware of common health conditions affecting AAPI communities and provide preventive care tailored to their specific risks. This could include regular screenings, education on lifestyle changes, and facilitating early diagnosis and treatment.

Advocating for AAPI Health Equity 

Nurses are more than just providers of care—they are advocates for health equity and champions of access to education and resources. Their role in addressing barriers to healthcare goes beyond the bedside; it’s about empowering AAPI patients and their communities to take charge of their health. Key actions nurses can take include: 

• Connecting Culturally Relevant Resources: Nurses can play a pivotal role in connecting patients with culturally appropriate resources, such as community health centers, preferred-language materials, and support groups tailored to AAPI populations.
• Advocating for Health Equity: Nurses have the power to bring attention to systemic inequalities. They should work to ensure that AAPI patients receive equal access to healthcare services and are not overlooked in healthcare policies or programs. This includes advocating for better access to interpreters, culturally sensitive materials, and preventive care.
• Empowering through Education: Health education is one of the most powerful tools nurses have for inspiring lasting change. Nurses can help bridge gaps in health literacy by providing education on how to navigate the healthcare system and understand medical information in culturally relevant ways.

Lead the Change in Inclusive Healthcare 

Nurses are at the heart of providing inclusive, compassionate care to diverse populations, including the Asian American and Pacific Islander communities. By practicing cultural competence, addressing healthcare disparities, and promoting equitable access to healthcare, nurses have the power to transform not only individual lives but entire communities. 

Herzing University is proud to prepare nurses to deliver this kind of care. Herzing’s nursing programs emphasize the value of diversity, inclusion, and culturally competent care, with a curriculum designed to equip nurses with the knowledge and skills to advocate for all patients. 

Herzing University is committed to advancing a more equitable, patient-centered, and effective healthcare system. If you’re passionate about creating meaningful change, explore Herzing’s nursing programs. Together, we can shape a more inclusive and compassionate healthcare future—where every patient feels respected, understood and cared for.