Dr. Karlita Warren, sports medicine educator and advocate for diversity in healthcare, joins the AT Last Podcast to talk about what it really means to practice cultural competence. She explains how clinicians can better serve athletes from diverse backgrounds by understanding cultural context, breaking down barriers to communication, and addressing implicit biases in treatment decisions.

This conversation highlights why representation matters, not only in who receives care but also in who provides it. Dr. Warren shares practical strategies for healthcare providers, from rethinking patient interactions to designing systems that honor equity. The result is an inspiring roadmap for a more inclusive future in sports medicine, one where all athletes feel seen, heard, and supported.

AT L.A.S.T.

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Artwork by Jason Eisenberg 

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Music by Willie B the Ichiban Don

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Production / Engineering / Editing / by Gerson Sandoval

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Guest Contact

Website:  https://thekizoeffect.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karlita-l-warren-phd-atc-5b72a838/

References

1. Nynas SM. The assessment of athletic training students’ knowledge and behavior to provide culturally competent care. Athletic Training Education Journal. 2015;10(1):82-90.
2. Grove DH, Mansell J. Cultural competence: where are we as athletic training educators? Athletic Training Education Journal. 2020;15(1):49-54.
3. Geisler PR. Multiculturalism and athletic training education: implications for educational and professional progress. J Athl Train. 2003;38(2):141-151.
4. Volberding JL. Perceived cultural competence levels in undergraduate athletic training students. Athletic Training Education Journal. 2013;8(3):66-70.
5. Kochanek J. Promoting cultural competence in athletic training education: an intergroup dialogue approach. Athletic Training Education Journal. 2020;15(2):113-119.
6. Volberding J. Relationship between cultural competence and athletic training students’ confidence in providing culturally competent care. Athletic Training & Sports Health Care. Published online January 3, 2014.
7. Barfield JP, Cobler DC, Lam ETC, Zhang J, Chitiyo G. Differences between African-American and Caucasian students on enrollment influences and barriers in kinesiology-based allied health education programs. Advances in Physiology Education. 2012;36(2):164-169.
8. Hunt V, Prince S, Dixon-Fyle S, Dolan K. Diversity wins: How inclusion matters. McKinsey & Company Report. May 2020