1. possession of the skills and knowledge that are appropriate for and specific to a given culture.

2. the capacity to function effectively in cultural settings other than one’s own. This usually involves a recognition of the diversity both between and within cultures, a capacity for cultural self-assessment, and a willingness to adapt personal behaviors and practices. Cultural competence has become a central concept in health care, with educators and practitioners focused on recognizing the cultural variation in clients’ health-related beliefs and activities in order to improve cross-cultural communication and health outcomes. See also cultural sensitivity.