Understanding experiences of the Swedish health care system from the perspective of newly arrived refugees

Abstract

Objective: Refugees seek medical advice for a variety of reasons. Previous research suggests that understanding the refugees' experiences of and access to healthcare are important factors for improving their health as access to healthcare has been found to be a leading health indicator. Therefore, the aim of this study was to illuminate experiences of the Swedish health care system from the perspective of newly arrived refugees. Results: More than 70% of newly arrived refugees in the county of Scania were in need of health care during the last 3 months of 2015-2016. They did not seek care to the same extent as the general population. The main reasons were explained as too high costs, long waiting times and language difficulties. Some disclosed being denied access to health care for reasons, such as being denied care when seeking emergency room for stomach problems and being denied follow-up care for diabetes.