First, a sincere apology for the delay in posting this—but my appreciation for the Arab-American community remains no less heartfelt. April is officially recognized as National Arab-American Heritage Month, a time to reflect on the profound contributions, vibrant cultures, and rich histories of Arab Americans across the United States. 

As osteopathic family medicine physicians and trainees, this month offers a vital opportunity to deepen our understanding and commitment to inclusive, culturally responsive care. And with Arab Americans being one of the most underrecognized communities in our current health data systems, this recognition is more critical than ever. 

Invisible in Data, Yet Targeted in Society

Did you know that Arab Americans are still classified as "White" in the US Census? While this may seem benign on paper, the implications are significant. Without a distinct Middle Eastern/North African (MENA) identifier: 

  • Health disparities are underreported. 
  • Public health funding is misallocated or absent. 
  • Epidemiological tracking becomes nearly impossible. 
  • Policy decisions are made without accurate population data. 

This phenomenon contributes to what Siwaar Abouhala calls “statistical erasure” in her impactful piece in Perspectives in Primary Care. In her powerful words: 

“To exist and not be questioned is simply not an option for many Arab Americans, especially those who face vicious Islamophobia and hate. Being unrecognized politically, yet targeted socially, is a dangerous dichotomy that has resulted in a severe lack of trust in surveying bodies and institutions. The problem of a lack of data coupled with a fear of providing data results in statistical erasure.”

We must recognize this erasure not just as a data issue, but as a healthcare access and equity issue. 

Providing Culturally Responsive Care to Arab-American Patients 

As family medicine physicians, we are in a unique position to model inclusive, affirming care.  

This includes: 

Respecting Gender Dynamics in Clinical Encounters 

Many Arab-American patients, especially those who are religiously observant, may feel more comfortable with same-gender providers or same-sex chaperones during physical exams. Being attentive to these preferences is not only respectful—it’s central to patient-centered care. 

Honoring Religious Practices

During Ramadan, for example, most forms of oral intake are prohibited from dawn until sunset. While Islamic jurisprudence typically allows medical exemptions (such as for chronic illness or emergencies), many patients need reassurance that a medication or treatment is medically necessary to feel at peace with accepting care. This is where empathetic communication and clear risk-benefit discussions are essential. 

Using the Tools of Family Medicine: Listening, Asking, Adapting 

What defines family medicine is not just continuity—it’s contextual care. Asking patients about their preferences, beliefs, and family structures helps avoid assumptions while building trust. 

OMT, Modesty, and Medical Education: What About Our Arab-American Trainees? 

As osteopathic family physicians and educators, we also need to consider how we create inclusive learning environments for Arab-American students and colleagues. OMT labs--often requiring close physical contact--can unintentionally become uncomfortable for students form cultures where modesty is emphasized.  

Questions we should be asking: 

  • Can same-gender pairing be prioritized in OMT labs? 
  • Are modesty garments or coverings available during instruction? 
  • Is there space for anonymous feedback or accommodation requests? 

Several osteopathic programs continue to struggle with these accommodations—not out of ill will, but due to lack of planning and open conversation. Let’s change that. If you’ve seen good practices at your school, or if you’ve found creative solutions, please share. Your insights can help us all grow.  

In Closing: Appreciation and Commitment

Thank you again to the Arab-American community—for your cultural richness, your resilience, and your contributions to medicine and beyond. As a field rooted in holistic, patient-centered care, osteopathic family medicine must continue advocating for inclusion not just in April—but every month. 

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