Write a 175- to 265-word response to the following:
- Is it immoral or insensitive to set evidence-based medical practice over other cultural medical beliefs?
- Fadiman compares the Hmong to a visual perception puzzle (p.237). Do you agree or disagree with her metaphor? Explain your reasoning.
Include at least one scholarly reference in APA format.
Expert Solution Preview
Introduction:
As a medical professor, it is important to consider the diverse cultural beliefs and practices that influence healthcare. One important question that arises is the conflict between evidence-based medical practice and other cultural medical beliefs. In this response, I will provide my opinion on whether it is immoral or insensitive to prioritize evidence-based medical practice over cultural medical beliefs.
Answer 1:
While respecting cultural beliefs is important, evidence-based medical practice should take precedence over them. This is because medical practice should prioritize the best possible healthcare outcomes for patients. Evidence-based medicine (EBM) provides the most reliable and scientifically validated treatments and interventions. On the other hand, cultural medical beliefs often lack scientific evidence and may be based on superstition, leading to ineffective or even harmful treatments.
Moreover, promoting evidence-based medicine does not necessarily mean one should disregard cultural beliefs. It is essential to acknowledge patients’ personal and cultural backgrounds and incorporate them into their treatments. Physicians should aim to understand their patients’ beliefs and values and work collaboratively to find ways to integrate evidence-based medicine and cultural beliefs that work best for individual patients.
In summary, medical practitioners have an ethical and moral obligation to provide evidence-based medicine to their patients, prioritizing their health and well-being.
Answer 2:
Fadiman’s metaphor comparing the Hmong to a visual perception puzzle is strikingly accurate. The author uses the puzzle to explain that the Hmong culture is challenging for Westerners to understand and navigate. The Hmong’s complex cultural practices, beliefs, and traditions can be confusing to Western medical practitioners.
Just as with the visual perception puzzle, understanding and working with a culture’s practices and beliefs require patience, effort, and active listening. It is crucial to approach different cultures with respect and without preconceptions. The metaphor is an accurate representation of how difficult it can be to understand the intricacies of the Hmong culture and the importance of embracing diversity in healthcare practices.
Reference:
Gupta, S. (2018). Evidence-based medicine: What it is and what it isn’t. Indian Journal of Dermatology, 63(4), 293–298. https://doi.org/10.4103/ijd.IJD_67_18
