Abstract
BackgroundWhile international students form an increasing population of higher education students in Turkey, there is limited empirical evidence about their health services utilization. The study aim was to investigate healthcare access among a group of international students studying in Ankara city and identify potential barriers that affect full healthcare utilization.MethodA total of 535 international students from 83 countries completed an online-based questionnaire. The survey was conducted from September until October 2020. Variables between groups within the study sample were compared using ANOVA and Chi-square tests (with Fisher’s exact test). Logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the relationships between variables related to access to health services.ResultsOf the study population, 80.6% accessed the general practitioner (GP), 40% accessed the student health centres, and 11.4% were admitted to the hospital at least once. About 80% of international students reported changing their views to access healthcare more because of the COVID-19 pandemic.ConclusionLack of awareness of healthcare support systems, perceived stigma associated with mental health services, and language barriers were the main barriers affecting healthcare access by international students.ImplicationsStudy findings indicate the need for education of international students on available healthcare, targeted health promotion, and training of health providers on effective communication.
Highlights
International students comprise a significant population of higher education students in Turkey
Of the study population, 80.6% accessed the general practitioner (GP), 40% accessed the student health centres, and 11.4% were admitted to the hospital at least once
Lack of awareness of healthcare support systems, perceived stigma associated with mental health services, and language barriers were the main barriers affecting healthcare access by international students
Summary
International students comprise a significant population of higher education students in Turkey. In 2020, the number of international students in Turkey amounted to 185, 000, and during the period from 2017 to 2020, the average annual enrollment rate increased up to 15% [1]. Starting to live in a new country brings numerous challenges to international students because of culture and language differences [3, 4]. In addition to the pressure associated with the transition to university, international students experience stress related to adapting to a new language, culture, and social way of life [5]. Most international students leave behind their social support network and have to form new ones as they transition to higher education. While international students form an increasing population of higher education students in Turkey, there is limited empirical evidence about their health services utilization. The study aim was to investigate healthcare access among a group of international students studying in Ankara city and identify potential barriers that affect full healthcare utilization
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
