Bridging Cultural Barriers: Addressing Healthcare Hesitancy in the Chaldean Community

Abstract

The Chaldean community, originating from Iraq, faces unique challenges in accessing and engaging with healthcare systems in the United States. Concentrated in Detroit, Michigan, and El Cajon, California, this culturally distinct population exhibits hesitancy toward modern medicine, influenced by historical, cultural, and systemic factors. This paper explores the roots of Chaldean healthcare hesitancy, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, when distrust in government initiatives, cultural concerns, and misinformation significantly impacted vaccine uptake. Through culturally tailored outreach, such as campaigns led by Chaldean physicians and community organizations like Project Bismutha, steps have been taken to address these barriers. The paper highlights the importance of culturally sensitive care, trust-building, and targeted public health initiatives in improving health outcomes for Chaldeans. Drawing on examples from Michigan and California, it advocates for expanded community engagement, policy interventions, and training in cultural competence to bridge gaps in healthcare access and foster trust. These strategies serve as a model for addressing health disparities in other underserved populations.