Sweden is a multicultural society. Coming to a new country, when having a child with a chronic disease, involves many challenges. One is to approach a new healthcare system. The aim of this study was to gain a broader understanding of immigrant parents’ experiences of their encounters with the Swedish healthcare system. Materials-Methods: Twelve parents of children with asthma were interviewed. The interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim and then analyzed by using qualitative content analysis Results: The results show that immigrant parents’ experiences of Swedish health vary. Some parents are pleased by the care they receive, while others experience a great deal of difficulties. The encounters with the Swedish healthcare system are described as Being met with respect and Affordable care, as well as Problems with communication, Lack of confidence, and Being discriminated against. Conclusion: Swedish healthcare professionals are expected to offer care on equal terms to the whole population. This is a challenge for healthcare professionals, who need to improve their ability to provide culturally competent care and to understand immigrant parents´ expectations and needs. Such care can be achieved through education of professionals who encounter immigrant parents. Another way is to make it possible for these parents to talk about their expectations and concerns.
Sponsorship:
The research was supported by grants from The Swedish Asthma and Allergy Association and Signhild Engkvist Foundation, Stockholm, Sweden