159929 South Asian women's perceptions and preferences for care: A cross-sectional survey

Monday, November 5, 2007: 11:15 AM

Memoona Hasnain, MD, MHPE, PhD , College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL
Amina Merchant , College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL
John H. Rogers, MPH , College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL
Usha Menon, PhD, RN , College of Nursing and Health Innovation, Arizona State University, Phoenix, AZ
Background: Despite the significantly growing numbers and unique cultural beliefs and practices of South Asians, there is a paucity of disaggregated research on this population. The lack of discrete data on South Asians hampers the development of culturally appropriate, patient-centered health care services for this group. This study sought South Asian women's perspectives on barriers to and recommendations for ensuring culturally appropriate care. Methods: A community sample of South Asian women (n=150) in Chicago completed a cross-sectional, mixed-method survey. Quantitative questions included demographics, income, heath insurance, and usual source of care. Qualitative questions included positive and negative experiences with a health care provider/system and recommendations for improving care. Results: Quantitative: Participants' mean age was 39.5 yeas; country of birth: India (39.3%), Pakistan (38%); Marital status: 71.2% married; education: 53% college graduates, 13.3%

Learning Objectives:
By the end of the session, participants will be able to: 1. Differentiate between the different South Asian groups and how they differ from the larger Asian American Pacific Islander population; 2. Apply the concepts and principles of cultural competence to South Asian women; and, 3. Develop a framework for best-practices and action related to providing high quality, patient-centered, culturally appropriate care for South Asian women.

Keywords: Underserved Populations, Barriers to Care

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Any relevant financial relationships? No
Any institutionally-contracted trials related to this submission?

I agree to comply with the American Public Health Association Conflict of Interest and Commercial Support Guidelines, and to disclose to the participants any off-label or experimental uses of a commercial product or service discussed in my presentation.

See more of: South Asian Public Health Association Symposium
See more of: Asian Pacific Islander Caucus of APHA