Berlin Lawmaker's Bill on 'Cultural Competency Courses' Passes State Senate

A piece of legislation that would require health professionals to take cultural competency courses in order to renew their license passed unanimously in a state Senate vote last week.

The bill, championed by Berlin Democratic state Sen. Terry Gerratana, was introduced back in January as a way to address the increasing variety of populations in Connecticut and the healthcare challenges they face.

"As Connecticut’s population becomes more diverse, these courses will allow health care providers to take into account cultural nuances and use them to deliver better services," according to a news release from Gerratana's website.

According to the bill, SB366, the state Department of Public Health would administer these courses to an array of health professionals, including  social workers, professional counselors, alcohol and drug counselors, and marriage and family therapists.

“These one hour classes will do so much to improve the care given to underserved populations at no cost to Connecticut’s taxpayers," Gerratana said. 

If the bill passes the house — where it currently is being discussed — and gets the approval of Gov. Dannel. P. Malloy, then it would go into effect beginning Oct. 1, 2014, the press release said. After that date, affected professionals would have to complete a one-hour course each year in order to meet the requirements of their license.

Gerratana noted these individuals are already required to complete 15-20 hours of continuing education during each registration period.