Article
Understanding health priorities.pdf
Journal of Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities
(2021)
Abstract
Brazilians represent a growing proportion of immigrants in the USA. Little is known about their health or healthcare utilization
after their arrival. This study aimed to gather formative data to understand the needs of Brazilian immigrant women to guide
public health interventions. We conducted five focus groups with Brazilian women born in Brazil (n = 47) and 13 key informant
interviews with representatives from Brazilian-serving organizations. Participants were recruited from churches and social
service organizations in the Greater Boston area. Findings revealed that mental health was the most pressing health priority;
many attributed high levels of anxiety and depression to worries about undocumented status, separation from social networks,
and strenuous work schedules. Occupational health issues were frequently mentioned, including musculoskeletal complaints,
skin rashes, and respiratory problems. Domestic violence was also a concern, and many women feared reporting to police due to
undocumented status. Most reported good access to medical care and described the quality of healthcare services as superior to
that available in Brazil. However, many reported challenges with interpersonal communication with providers, dissatisfaction
with a perceived unwillingness from providers to order medical tests or prescribe treatment, and limited access to mental health
services. There was agreement that effective intervention strategies should use social media, radio, and group education in
churches.
Keywords
- Brazilian immigrants,
- Qualitative Research
Disciplines
Publication Date
Spring 2021
DOI
10.1007/s40615-020-00936-y
Citation Information
Leticia P Rocha, Cristiane Soares, Jennifer D Allen, Alecia McGregor, et al.. "Understanding health priorities.pdf" Journal of Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities Vol. 5 (2021) p. 1 - 11 Available at: http://works.bepress.com/carlos_siqueira/60/