Arabic-speaking students' primary care experiences in Scotland

Abstract

Internationalisation of the higher education sector has resulted in greater ethnic and cultural diversity within the student population throughout the UK and European Union. There is limited knowledge about the burden of poor health and health care utilisation among minority ethnic groups in higher education. Scottish health policy is directed toward proactive care delivered within primary care settings.

The community of one university in Scotland was chosen to explore the perceptions of accessibility and acceptability of primary care among one minority group, namely Arabic speakers. The research methodology was of an exploratory descriptive design, with a convenience sample of Arabic speakers studying at one university. Quantitative and qualitative data were provided by 20 respondents. A questionnaire elicited demographic data and information about any primary care services used, while semi-structured interviews gathered more in-depth data.

Participants were generally satisfied with primary health services. The majority were satisfied with the availability of a healthcare professional of their preferred gender, and their communication with and attitudes of healthcare professionals, as well as the health information provided. Recommendations include greater availability of written information in Arabic, and further research concerning cultural competence for healthcare professionals.