It is, however, the delivery of services that are rooted in an understanding of and respect for the patient's needs, cultural values, and environment.
Substance abuse is a massive public health problem.
It has been CSAT's experience that the treatment programs that succeed with these vulnerable populations are those that recognize the importance of being attuned to the culture of their patients. Staff backgrounds representative of those of the patient population. Treatment modalities that reflect the cultural values and treatment needs of the patient population i.e. incorporating American Indian rituals into the treatment program. Representation of the patient population in decision making and policy implementation so outsiders are not imposing their values. Cultural Issues in Substance Abuse Treatment notes that among the Hispanic community, well educated professionals may not understand the problems and cultural nuances of a poor, immigrant community, even though they speak the same language.