The diversity of the national and global population, such as economic migrants, refugees, asylum-seekers and others, entrusts health professionals with health promotion and nursing care provision to individuals, groups and families coming from different cultures. Providing high quality health care requires a deep insight into their special cultural characteristics. Individualized and culturally sensitive nursing care, based on the religion, history, culture philosophy, manners and customs, beliefs and attitudes, lifestyle and a profound understanding of the values of health and illness within various cultures, is undoubtedly a necessity. In conclusion, it requires cultural empathy, good relationship and communication, acceptance and respect for diversity.
The aim of this review is to emphasize on the need for effective intercultural approach by health professionals, equipped with the requisite cultural sensitivity and competence, in order to promote health to families of different cultures.
Key words: Culture, cultural competence, family health.