MWNFGC Projects
Current Research Projects
Crista Johnson, MD
Robert Wood Johnson Clinical Scholar, University of Michigan
Columbus, OH – Somali population
Abstract: The traditional practice of Female Genital Cutting (FGC), has gained increased attention due to a growing influx of immigrants and refugees from indigenous countries to Europe and North America. In the United States, these immigrants underutilize health care, and health care providers (HCPs) are challenged to provide culturally-appropriate care. The aims of this project are to examine Somali immigrant womens' experiences with the U.S. health care system and to explore how attitudes, perceptions and cultural values, such as FGC - which is prevalent among 98% of women in Somalia, influence their health-seeking behavior and health care utilization. The project is a community-based participatory research collaboration and data collection is currently ongoing.
The results of this study will improve our understanding of the contextual basis of health beliefs as it influences one's health-seeking behavior and health care utilization. Evidence-based guidelines and quality improvement interventions can then be designed to improve institutional processes of health care delivery, HCP knowledge base and cultural competency on FGC, as well as serve to incorporate community dialogue regarding ongoing health service needs and persistent barriers to care.
Claudia Morrissey, MD, MPH & Nicole Warren, PhD, MPH, CNM
Chicago, IL – Ethiopian population
Abstract: Coming soon
Upcoming Presentations
Please check back in the future for more information.
Past Presentations
"Addressing Refugee Women's Health and the Communities Affected by Female Genital Cutting (FGC)."
2007 National Refugee and Immigrant Conference
Holiday Inn Chicago-Mart Plaza, Chicago, IL
Monday-Tuesday, October 22-23, 2007
This presentation provides cultural and clinical guidelines for working with immigrant and refugee clients affected by FGC. Cultural, ethical, clinical, and legal issues are addressed, and solutions are explored that are appropriate for providers and clients. A community outreach education project is highlighted that offers refugee women and girls an opportunity to discuss and learn about intimate women's issues, and whose goal is to present accurate information and promote women's healthy decisions.
“Promoting Cultural Competency in the Care of Circumcised Women”
Crista Johnson
Cultural Competency: On the Road to Best Practices Conference Oakwood Healthcare System Transcultural Strategic Task Force, Dearborn, MI
Wednesday, March 7, 2007
“Caring for African Immigrant Women affected by Female Genital Cutting”
Nicole Warren
UIC College of Nursing, Chicago, IL
Tuesday, Feb 20th, 2007