Barriers to Health Care Access in 13 Asian American Communities

Overview

Journal Am J Health Behav

Date 2009 Aug 12

PMID 19663748

Citations 54

Authors

Sunmin Lee

Genevieve Martinez

Grace X Ma

Chiehwen E Hsu

E Stephanie Robinson

Julie Bawa

Hee-Soon Juon

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Objective: To obtain and discuss in-depth information on health care use in Asian Americans (AAs).

Methods: Nineteen focus groups were conducted in 174 adults from 13 AA communities in Montgomery County, Maryland. MAX QDA software was used to analyze qualitative data.

Results: Financial, physical, communication, and cultural attitudes were 4 major barriers to accessing health care. Underrepresented communities reported unique additional barriers, such as lack of screening opportunities and interpretation services due to lack of resources in the communities.

Conclusions: Future studies, public health policy, and funding resources should consider including underrepresented AA subgroups and reflect their needs.

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