A CULTURALLY RESPONSIVE SEXUAL HEALTH EDUCATION FRAMEWORK FOR COMMUNITY CLINICS IN THE INLAND EMPIRE
Date of Award
8-2026
Document Type
Project
Degree Name
Master of Public Health
Department
Health Science and Human Ecology
First Reader/Committee Chair
Amber Olney, MPH
Abstract
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) continue to disproportionately affect underserved communities, where barriers such as limited healthcare access, stigma, healthcare anxiety, medical mistrust, and language differences may discourage individuals from seeking routine screening and timely treatment. This project examined current public health literature, surveillance data, and federal guidance to identify evidence-based strategies that community clinics can implement to improve patient engagement in sexual health services. The findings demonstrated that effective STI prevention extends beyond testing alone and is strengthened through culturally responsive care, stigma reduction, patient-centered communication, standardized clinic workflows, and effective patient navigation. As a result, this project developed a Culturally Responsive Sexual Health Education Framework to provide community clinics serving underserved populations throughout the Inland Empire with practical recommendations for improving sexual health communication, increasing participation in routine STI screening, strengthening follow-up care, and supporting equitable access to preventive healthcare services.
Recommended Citation
Mora Ledezma, Lilianna, "A CULTURALLY RESPONSIVE SEXUAL HEALTH EDUCATION FRAMEWORK FOR COMMUNITY CLINICS IN THE INLAND EMPIRE" (2026). Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations. 2527.
https://scholarworks.lib.csusb.edu/etd/2527