Hall, Maria B.Carter-Francique, Akilah R.Llyod, Stacy M.Eden, Tiffany M.Zuniga, Angie V.Guidry, Jeffrey J.Jones, Lovell A.2020-04-172020-04-172015http://hdl.handle.net/10342/8216Breast cancer mortality has affected African American women at a disproportionate rate. The purpose of this research was to assess how health professionals’ cultural competence contributes to African American women’s barriers to and receipt of mammograms. Sixty-one African American women residing in Harris County, Texas, shared their views within a series of focus groups. Theoretical propositions from the PEN-3 model were used to understand mammography adherence at the interpersonal level. Participants noted various perceived factors associated with mammography incompliance. Lack of professionalism of clinicians and clerical staff contributed to a decrease in health care services utilization. In addition, cultural insensitivity and discriminatory behavior enabled an attitude of medical mistrust. Improving patient–provider communication, through culturally appropriate centered educational efforts, is a beneficial strategy for breast health programs among underserved populations.African Americans, breast health, screening, cultural competence, patient–provider communicationArticle10.1177/2158244015576547