There are various forms of Christianity present in Korea; especially, Korean Protestantism (Andresen, 2001). Korean Protestantism will emphasize the healing power of the Holy Spirit, but most religious leaders will promote medical attention to any who may be sick (Andresen, 2001). However, there are a few denominations that ask members to solely rely on the healing power of the Holy Spirit, rather than seeking medical attention (Andresen, 2001). Koreans place a tremendous amount of trust in their religious leaders and physicians (Andresen, 2001). Since, Korean American patients trust their physicians concerning treatment, if they do not know of informed consent, they could be taken advantage of by doctors. There is an increase of the knowledge of informed consent that will help Korean Americans in the future (Andresen, 2001). Since, religious leaders are so trusted and are believed to have miraculous healing powers, Korean Americans will follow what they have to say (Andresen, 2001). “When a conventional medical treatment proves ineffective, religious Koreans often depend on the power of prayer or of some other type of divine intervention” (Andresen, 2001, …show more content…
Western doctors and healthcare providers need to have the knowledge necessary to give Korean Americans the correct type of care necessary. This may mean that they have to accept some of the main traditional Korean medicine so as to encourage them to come to them for health care. Making them comfortable is necessary, as this is what Korean Americans are used to in their culture. Also, knowing any biological factors can influence how healthcare providers give correct care and this can influence their health, especially concerning preventable health