What is CLAS?

For us, culturally and linguistically appropriate services (CLAS) is a way to improve the quality of services provided to all individuals, which will ultimately help reduce health disparities. CLAS is about respect and responsiveness: Respect the whole individual and Respond to the individual’s health needs and preferences.

Health disparities in our nation are well documented. Providing CLAS is one strategy to help eliminate health disparities. By tailoring services to an individual's culture and language preferences, health professionals can help bring about positive health outcomes.

The provision of health services that are respectful of and responsive to the health beliefs, practices, and needs of patients can help close the gap in health outcomes.