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Domain 1: Clinical Expert – Competency Standard 2.1 Reflection

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Domain 1: Clinical Expert – Competency Standard 2.1 Reflection

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After learning about Competency Standard 2.1, I realized that barriers such as language, culture, trauma history, and health literacy can impact patients’ understanding of medical procedures, including risks and benefits, and their ability to make informed decisions (Migrant & Refugee Women’s Health Partnership, 2019, p. 14). Many Syrian patients may not speak English or may have limited health literacy, which can lead to misunderstandings, disconnection, and unsafe care. Previously, I hadn’t realized how significantly these barriers affect care. Now, I understand the importance of effective communication by using professional interpreters or bilingual staff when needed to ensure patients fully comprehend their care options (Migrant & Refugee Women’s Health Partnership, 2019). This knowledge is essential for delivering safe, culturally sensitive, and patient-centered care to people from diverse backgrounds, including migrants and refugees.

Reference

Migrant & Refugee Women's Health Partnership. (2019). Culturally responsive clinical practice: Working with people from migrant and refugee backgrounds: Competency standards framework for clinicians. https://culturaldiversityhealth.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Culturally-responsive-clinical-practice-Working-with-people-from-migrant-and-refugee-backgrounds-Jan2019.pdf

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Social Determinants: Social Inclusion and Non-Discrimination

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Social Determinants: Social Inclusion and Non-Discrimination

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Social inclusion and non-discrimination are key components of the social determinants of health (World Health Organization, 2010).

These factors play an important role in shaping health outcomes for diverse populations. Globally, Syrian refugees often face discrimination and exclusion, leading to mental health issues. In Australia, some Syrian refugees continue to experience social exclusion, language barriers, and racism, which cause stress and limit access to health services (Refugee Council of Australia, 2019).

Approaches exist to promote inclusion and non-discrimination, but their real-world impact depends on how health professionals apply them in practice (Foundation House, n.d.).

These two key components can help Syrian refugees feel safer, reduce psychological stress, and increase their willingness to access healthcare (Foundation House, n.d.). For example, hiring bilingual staff, providing translated documents, and creating a culturally safe environment for Syrian patients can promote inclusion and build trust.

References

Foundation House. (n.d.). Australian Refugee Health Practice Guide. Funded by the Australian Government Department of Health. Retrieved August 28, 2025, from https://refugeehealthguide.org.au/

Refugee Council of Australia. (2019, December 26). Settling in Australia: The challenges. https://www.refugeecouncil.org.au/settlement-challenges/

World Health Organization. (2010). A conceptual framework for action on the social determinants of health. https://iris.who.int/handle/10665/44489

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In Syrian culture, their health beliefs hold that the soul is integrated with the body, mental issues come from the heart or a supernatural force, and illnesses can be addressed by prayer (Hassan et al., 2015, pp. 28–29).

I think this is helpful for mental health, making them feel peace and comfortable, but may be limited for treating physical issues. While we need to respect their beliefs in culturally safe care, we should not force them to understand and accept modern psychology. They use traditional Arabic medicine for various diseases; 100 common species are used for over 25 conditions (Alachkar et al., 2011). We can support them with our knowledge and provide the correct medicine while respecting their culture. Understanding these beliefs allows healthcare providers to build trust and offer care that aligns with patients’ cultural values.

References

Alachkar, A., Jaddouh, A., Elsheikh, M. S., Bilia, A. R., & Vincieri, F. F. (2011). Traditional medicine in Syria: Folk medicine in Aleppo Governorate. Natural Product Communications, 6(1), 79–84. https://doi.org/10.1177/1934578X1100600119

Hassan, G., Kirmayer, L. J., Mekki-Berrada, A., Quosh, C., el Chammay, R., Deville-Stoetzel, J. B., Youssef, A., Jefee-Bahloul, H., Barkeel-Oteo, A., Coutts, A., Song, S., & Ventevogel, P. (2015). Culture, context and the mental health and psychosocial wellbeing of Syrians: A review for mental health and psychosocial support staff working with Syrians affected by armed conflict (Report). United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). https://www.unhcr.org/media/culture-context-and-mental-health-and-psychosocial-wellbeing-syrians-review-mental-health-and

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Principal health issues that Syrian refugees face 

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Principal health issues that Syrian refugees face 

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When Syrian refugees arrive in Australia, they usually face vitamin D deficiency, this is because people from the Middle East, such as Syrians, often wear clothing that covers most of their skin (Benson & Skull, 2007).
Another point is that due to persecution and cultural differences, they often stay indoors.
Therefore, they may be exposed to less sunlight in Australia than in their country of origin (Benson & Skull, 2007).

Evidence-based treatments include taking 1000–5000 IU daily for 6–12 weeks. After this, the dose should be reduced to 1000–2000 IU for another 6–12 weeks to help restore normal vitamin D levels (Foundation House, n.d.).

It is also important to maintain sufficient calcium intake from food or supplements if needed, and to teach the importance of sun exposure, as sunlight is the major source of vitamin D (The Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne, 2020).

References

Benson, J., & Skull, S. (2007). Hiding from the sun: Vitamin D deficiency in refugees. Australian Family Physician, 36(5), 355–357.

Foundation House. (n.d.). Low vitamin D. In Australian refugee health practice guide. Funded by the Australian Government Department of Health. Retrieved August 28, 2025, from https://refugeehealthguide.org.au/low-vitamin-d/

The Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne. (2020, September). Vitamin D deficiency. Retrieved May 27, 2024, from https://www.rch.org.au/clinicalguide/guideline_index/Vitamin_D_deficiency/