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Experience of migrant care and needs for cultural competence training among public health workers in K orea
Author(s) -
Chae Duckhee,
Lee Jina,
Asami Keiko,
Kim Hyunlye
Publication year - 2018
Publication title -
public health nursing
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.471
H-Index - 55
eISSN - 1525-1446
pISSN - 0737-1209
DOI - 10.1111/phn.12390
Subject(s) - competence (human resources) , cultural competence , nursing , preparedness , focus group , autonomy , health care , public health , psychology , qualitative research , exploratory research , medicine , medical education , sociology , social psychology , political science , pedagogy , social science , anthropology , law
Abstract Objective This study explored the experiences of public health workers ( PHW s) providing health care for migrants living in Korea and clarified needs for cultural competence training. Design and Sample Twenty‐six PHW s from five public health centers in Gwangju city, South Korea, participated in this exploratory qualitative study. Methods Five semi‐structured focus group interviews of PHW s were conducted from September to December 2016. A directed content analysis approach was conducted using four categories: perceived characteristics of migrants, interaction between PHW s and migrants, interaction between PHW s and organizations/systems, and cultural competence training needs. Results PHW s perceived that migrants lacked autonomy in health decisions and awareness of health behaviors. PHW s experienced difficulties in communicating and in establishing trusting relationships. They found clients hard to reach and easy to miss, a lack of continuity in health care programs, and inadequate human and material resources. They preferred passive teaching methods to activity‐based simulation. PHW s believed essential training should be provided through e‐learning to all PHW s, including management. Conclusion PHW s reported experiencing multiple challenges from a lack of preparedness for culturally competent care and their clients’ vulnerability. Development of cultural competence training is suggested through e‐learning that reflects the PHW s’ experiences and provides systematic support.