Prioritizing cultural competence in the implementation of an evidence-based practice model

Inherent in implementing an evidence-based practice model are challenges related to maintaining the integrity of the model while ensuring cultural responsiveness. Certainly cultural appropriateness is recognized as critical in the selection and use of evidence-based models, however due to external pressures, many agencies are implementing evidence-based practices without careful consideration of cultural and community nuances. This paper provides an overview of the approach taken by an evaluation team and partner agency in modifying an evidence-based practice model to create congruence with culture of the consumer. The setting for this study was a large, primarily African American, urban area.