Barriers and facilitators to surveying asylum seekers: reflections of the fieldwork personnel

Abstract

Abstract Background There is scarcity of representative data on the health and service needs of asylum seekers in Europe due to numerous practical and methodological challenges in planning and implementation of studies among this population group. Yet such data is acutely needed for development of health system response to meet the needs of asylum seekers. The aim of this study was to examine barriers and facilitators for conducting a population-based study among asylum seekers in Finland. Methods Semi-structured face-to-face individual interviews (n = 7) were carried out with the fieldwork personnel of the Asylum Seekers Health and Well-being Survey (TERTTU). Interviews contained four themes of which two will be presented in this abstract: the recruitment of the survey participants and carrying out the interviews and health examinations of the survey. Interviews of the fieldwork personnel were recorded and transcribed in verbatim. Data were analysed qualitatively using thematic analysis. Results Recruitment was substantially easier in reception centers than in private accommodations. Face-to-face and written information in participant's own language reduced misunderstandings and confidentiality concerns. Certain characteristics of the fieldwork personnel (mature age, female sex, and common cultural background) were facilitators for both recruitment and carrying out the survey appointments. Family and community members' perceptions influenced participation. Reception center personnel's attitudes influenced logistics of the recruitment process and the conduct of the survey. Incentives for participation were perceived both as facilitators and barriers. Conclusions It is feasible to obtain a high response rate among asylum seekers through investing in planning and dissemination of information about the study. Findings of this study can be benefited by other countries planning a survey among asylum seekers. Key messages Challenges in data collection among asylum seekers can be solved with careful planning and flexible fieldwork protocols. Sharing good practices about data collection among asylum seekers on a European level will inform researchers intending to conduct health surveys among asylum seekers and other forced migrants.