Assessing Cultural Competence

As stated in the introductory section of the Resource Guide on Cultural Competence and Evidence-Based Practices, cultural and linguistic competence is a critical factor in the successful implementation of evidence-based practices. It is instrumental in increasing service access and utilization, enhancing quality of care, and increasing the likelihood of better outcomes for children and families.

One of the most comprehensive sources of information on assessing cultural competence can be found on the Georgetown University National Center for Cultural Competence website. This website contains information about a wide range of self-assessment measures for both agencies and individuals working in health and mental health care, including:

• Processes and methods for self assessment
• Information describing the specific measures.

Another resource on assessing cultural competence is the State Mental Health Cultural Competence Activities Assessment instrument. This was developed by the National Technical Assistance Center for State Mental Health Planning (NTAC, 2004).