Cultural competence in healthcare: A systematic review of perceptions, assessment, and mental health interventions among professionals/students in Greece/Cyprus

OBJECTIVE: Aim: This systematic review examined the cultural competence among healthcare professionals, focusing on: (I) the assessment of cultural competence among healthcare professionals; (II) the education and assessment of cultural competence among healthcare students; (III) healthcare professionals' perceptions and experiences regarding cultural competence; (IV) healthcare students' perceptions and experiences regarding cultural competence; and (V) educators' perspectives on teaching cultural competence. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Materials and Methods: A systematic review was conducted according to PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Databases searched included PubMed, Google Scholar, Elsevier, and ProQuest from 2017 to 2024. From 15, 053 studies identified initially, 31 studies met inclusion criteria after screening and were analyzed in depth. CONCLUSION: Conclusions: Healthcare professionals and students acknowledge the benefits of cultural competence training; however, undergraduate programs and curricula remain underdeveloped. Educators frequently rely on anecdotal methods rather than structured frameworks. Further systematic integration and evidence-based strategies are essential.