The purpose of this diversity seminar is to provide healthcare providers with a picture of the challenges faced by Muslim patients in the current environment and suggestions for better serving this population. This seminar begins with a description of the impact of anti-Muslim bigotry, including on Muslim patients. The seminar then provides a better understanding of the faith and practices of American Muslims as well as the implications of these beliefs and practices for healthcare delivery. Topics include Islamic perspectives towards illness and healthcare, family systems, decision making processes, dress codes, privacy and gender issues, dietary guidelines, women’s healthcare including reproductive issues and labor and delivery, views on death and dying, end of life issues, emergency treatment, life support, terminal illness and palliative care.
