Perceptions of Access to U.S. Health Care of Haitian Immigrants in South Florida

Abstract

Faculty from the Florida Atlantic University School of Social Work and the School of Nursing conducted focus groups to identify perceptions of access to U.S. health care by Haitian immigrants attending school-based wellness centers in Palm Beach County, Florida. Several major themes emerged from these focus groups. First, there is a lack of health services available to Haitian immigrants because of not being able to afford health insurance and because of fear of deportation if health benefits are sought. Second, in terms of how they receive health information, participants reported radio as the major medium. Third, when asked how they would disseminate health information to the Haitian population, participants suggested radio, TV, adult programs, churches, and health fairs in churches and other locations. Finally, participants demonstrated themselves to be knowledgeable and expressed positive health beliefs and values such as prevention, education, positive personal health practices, and heart health.