How Do Health Teams Perceive International Migrant Users of Primary Care?

Abstract

The following study aims to describe the perception of international migrants who use the primary level of care by health personnel and to explore how this perception can affect the care process in the commune of Antofagasta, north of Chile. Methodology: The methodology was qualitative using a phenomenological descriptive design, through which the discourses of the health personnel of three primary health care centers (n = 14) were explored. Results: The participants presented two thematic categories. The first one related to experiences during delivery of care to migrants and included perceptions and beliefs, factors associated with using services, and reasons for consultation. The second category related to stereotypes towards migrants, including prejudices, beliefs about their lives and reasons for migration. Conclusions: The therapeutic relationship with migrants in primary care depends on the health care personnel’s acceptability of this population, hence, allowing the delivery of care based on respect for their culture and rights.