Latinos are dramatically changing the demographic profile of the United States. By 2030 Latinos will comprise roughly 20 percent of the population. Developing a strong command of the Spanish language is not a realistic goal for most health care providers wishing to establish rapport with their Latino patients. Yet, growing numbers of health professionals are realizing the importance of understanding Latino cultural values as they impact the clinical encounter. Such knowledge can enhance their ability to communicate with and treat Latino patients effectively and respectfully.

The Latino Patient provides an in-depth exploration of Latino diversity; relevant cultural values; health status, beliefs and practices; and effective communication strategies. The author has developed an original, practice-oriented model that leads the health practitioner from greeting the patient to ultimately negotiating treatment. The book is hands-on, providing numerous illustrative vignettes gleaned from the authorÆs experience.

Part I begins by defining the Latino patient, a surprisingly diverse population, and by providing an overview of Latino health status and factors in their decision to seek health care. In addition to a common language, Latinos share a set of values quite different from those of mainstream Americans. Dr. Chong discusses those values she deems most relevant to the clinical encounter: family, personalismo, machismo and marianismo, religion, respect, and time orientation. Next come insights into the historical and contemporary (education, generation, country of origin and years in the U.S.) influences on the Latino culture. After a discussion of Latino health practices, the section ends with an explanation of the most effective ways to communicate with Latinos, along with a helpful list of dos and don'ts.

In Part II Dr. Chong provides the reader with an original model offering the practitioner key culturally related elements conducive to a successful greeting, history taking, evaluation, and treatment negotiation. Dr. Chong illustrates each step using provider-patient dialogues and analyzes what happenedùor didn'tùduring the interview in a unique and creative format.

The Latino Patient is a provocative book that should be high-priority reading for primary care physicians, nurses, nurse practitioners, physician's assistants, therapists, clinical psychologists, social workers, and other clinicians.