Social and Cultural Factors in Accessing Transportation Services: Considerations for Mary and BTC

QUESTION

1. Regarding the individual client (Mary): What specific social and cultural factors must be considered in your client’s case that might affect her use of transportation services?
2. Regarding the larger transportation services in the geographic area: What social and cultural factors will impact the use of transportation services? In other words, does dispatch have to know if the client uses a wheelchair so an appropriate vehicle is sent for pickup? How will the transportation company engage with non-English speakers?
3. How will social and cultural factors influence your presentation? Differentiate the specific social and cultural factors you will need to consider in delivering your message to each of the target audiences. In other words, how will you communicate the intended message most effectively to a diverse population of audience members?

Scenario: 

You have just finished meeting with your client, Mary, to review her treatment plan and discuss why she has been missing appointments at your agency. Referring to the state-funded transportation program, Better Transportation Company (BTC), Mary stated, “BTC just don’t show up or I have to wait and sometimes I miss the appointment.” “Sometimes I have to wait for hours to get a ride back home.” “They even forgot me last week.” “You know, back in my younger days, I would have picketed the state house and shown them a thing or two!” “I love the drivers though; they are kind, help me with my bags and walker, and are always polite and respectful.”

Mary has few financial resources and significant mental health needs and physical disabilities. Mary is also finding it difficult to pay for alternative transportation or to rely on friends and family, though they are sometimes available. The therapist has recommended that Mary come to treatment group three times per week. Mary has only been able to attend three groups in the past two months. She states she would be willing to come to the therapy groups if she could find reliable transportation. For Mary, attending these groups would likely mean greater medical and mental health stability and therefore fewer emergency room visits, fewer hospital admissions, and a greater quality of life.

As a human services professional, you already understand that Mary is facing a very real, personal, and difficult problem that may be challenging to remedy quickly. You also know from your experience with other clients that transportation is a systemic issue and not one unique to Mary.
Because you have a friend who works at BTC, you have been able to arrange for an opportunity to present your concerns to the company.

ANSWER

 Social and Cultural Factors in Accessing Transportation Services: Considerations for Mary and BTC

Introduction

In addressing the transportation challenges faced by Mary, a client with limited financial resources and significant mental health and physical disabilities, it is crucial to consider the specific social and cultural factors that may impact her use of transportation services. Additionally, understanding the broader social and cultural factors affecting transportation services in the geographic area is essential. This essay explores these factors and outlines how they can influence communication and engagement between Mary and BTC.

 Social and Cultural Factors Affecting Mary’s Use of Transportation Services

Financial Constraints: Mary’s limited financial resources may hinder her ability to afford alternative transportation options. This factor influences her reliance on state-funded transportation services like BTC.

Physical Disabilities: Mary’s physical disabilities, including the use of a walker, require specialized transportation assistance that accommodates her mobility needs. Ensuring that appropriate vehicles are dispatched for pickup is crucial to meet her requirements.

Mental Health Needs: Mary’s mental health challenges can impact her comfort and confidence in using transportation services. Providing a supportive and understanding environment that addresses her mental health needs can contribute to her willingness to use transportation services consistently.

Reliability and Timeliness: Mary’s experiences of missed pickups, long wait times, and forgotten appointments can negatively impact her trust in the transportation service. Ensuring reliable and punctual transportation services is vital to facilitate her attendance at therapy groups.

 Social and Cultural Factors Impacting Transportation Services

Language and Communication: In a diverse population, like the geographic area under consideration, the transportation company must address language barriers and engage with non-English speakers effectively. Providing interpretation services or employing multilingual staff can enhance communication and accessibility.

 Cultural Sensitivity: Recognizing and respecting cultural differences among clients is crucial. Transportation companies should be culturally sensitive in their interactions, considering customs, beliefs, and values that may influence individuals’ transportation preferences and experiences.

Equity and Accessibility: Considering social factors, such as income disparities and geographic distribution of transportation resources, is essential for ensuring equitable access to transportation services. Transportation companies should strive to serve all individuals, regardless of their socio-economic background or geographic location.

Communicating Effectively to Diverse Audiences

To address the social and cultural factors influencing communication, specific considerations must be made in delivering the intended message to diverse populations. These include:

Clear and Accessible Communication: Utilizing clear and concise language, providing written materials in multiple languages, and using visual aids can enhance communication with individuals who have varying language proficiencies or literacy levels.

Cultural Competence: Demonstrating cultural competence by valuing diversity, understanding cultural norms, and avoiding assumptions can foster trust and engagement among diverse audiences.

Collaboration and Feedback: Engaging in open dialogue and actively seeking feedback from clients and communities can ensure that transportation services are responsive to their needs. Regular communication channels can allow clients like Mary to share their experiences and suggestions for improvement.

Conclusion

Recognizing the social and cultural factors influencing Mary’s use of transportation services and understanding the broader context of transportation service provision in the geographic area is vital for addressing her challenges effectively. By considering financial constraints, physical disabilities, mental health needs, reliability, language barriers, cultural sensitivity, equity, and accessibility, transportation companies like BTC can enhance their services and ensure inclusivity. Effective communication, cultural competence, and collaborative approaches with diverse audiences are key to promoting better transportation access and meeting the specific needs of clients like Mary.