Support for IMGs: Communicating Effectively with Culturally Diverse Patients (IMG11MAR27)

Workshop Expectations

To get the most from the workshop, you will be asked to prepare a real-world scenario for discussion or role-play. This allows practice in a supportive environment to explore effective strategies and areas for improvement. This is an interactive session focused on communication skills, active participation in discussions and exercises is essential.

Technical Requirements

Where possible, all attendees must have cameras and microphones on to ensure meaningful interaction. On the Day Log in 10 minutes early so we can start promptly. Join from a quiet, private space to fully engage in discussions and activities. If you are more than 30 minutes late without notice, you may not be admitted. Regular breaks will be provided, and the session will conclude at 3:00 PM. If you cannot attend, inform the organisers in advance. We look forward to a great session with you!

Joining Instructions

This is a virtual course, the joining instructions for the virtual meeting will be added to the documents section (above) before the course. Please ensure that you are able to access this before the course so that you are ready to join on the day.

Booking cancellation

Participants must make every effort to attend courses they have booked. If your availability changes after booking, please cancel your place through Maxcourse as soon as possible. This will release the place for colleagues on the waiting list.

If you need to cancel within 1 week of the course or the course has started and you are not able to attend, please email england.lsfdcourses.yh@nhs.net to give your apologies.

This course is only available to IMG doctors in postgraduate training. (IMG = International Medical Graduate.) Please only book if you meet this criteria.

Mandatory: Dentist, or Doctor, or Public Health Professional

To equip International Medical Graduates working in the NHS with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to communicate effectively and compassionately with culturally diverse patients, ensuring safe, patient-centred care and improving clinical outcomes

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

Recognise key cultural factors that influence communication, health beliefs, and patient expectations within the NHS.

Apply clear, structured communication techniques that enhance patient understanding, engagement, and trust.

Adapt consultation styles to meet the needs of patients from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds.

Use interpreters effectively, following best practices for accurate and safe communication.

Identify and manage common communication barriers, including language differences, non-verbal cues, and culturally sensitive topics.

Demonstrate empathy and professionalism when handling challenging or emotionally charged interactions.

Reflect on personal communication habits and recognise unconscious biases that may affect patient care.

Collaborate confidently within multidisciplinary NHS teams, using respectful and culturally aware communication strategies.

These objectives support IMGs in developing practical, patient-centred communication skills essential for delivering high-quality care in the NHS

y the end of this course, participants will be able to:

Confidently conduct patient consultations using clear, culturally sensitive communication techniques appropriate to the NHS setting.

Build rapport and trust with patients from diverse cultural backgrounds by adapting verbal and non-verbal communication styles.

Explain medical information in plain language, ensuring patients understand diagnoses, treatment options, and next steps.

Navigate cross-cultural misunderstandings and resolve communication challenges using evidence-based strategies.

Work effectively with interpreters, structuring consultations to ensure accuracy, safety, and a positive patient experience.

Demonstrate increased self-awareness, recognising and managing personal biases that may influence interactions with patients.

Manage difficult or sensitive conversations with confidence, empathy, and professionalism.

Collaborate more effectively within NHS multidisciplinary teams, using respectful, structured, and culturally aware communication.

Enhance patient satisfaction and shared decision-making by tailoring communication to individual needs and cultural contexts.

These outcomes reflect practical, observable skills that participants will be able to demonstrate in everyday clinical practice.