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https://doi.org/10.1093/eurpub/ckad160.1358
Copy DOIJournal: European Journal of Public Health | Publication Date: Oct 24, 2023 |
License type: CC BY-NC 4.0 |
Abstract Background The Roma or Gipsy population is the largest ethnic minority both in Europe and Hungary with 10-15 years lower life expectancy and worse health indicators than majority populations. The aim of our study was to investigate a sensitive and controversial issue: the perspectives of Hungarian health professionals about the presence and impacts of prejudice towards Roma patients. Methods Semi-structured interviews were conducted between June 2017 and May 2018 involving 19 healthcare professionals. Qualitative methods were applied to analyse the transcripts. Results The presence and occasional manifestation of prejudices against the Romas were confirmed by the interviewees, most commonly in the form of longer waiting time, comments or other meta-communicative tools. Prejudicial attitudes and discriminatory behaviour are less common in wards where the prevalence of disadvantaged patients (HIV-positive, homeless) is higher (e.g. infectology). Prejudice is not specifically directed at the Roma ethnic minority, but also extends to populations living in poor socio-economic conditions, or with underlying self-destructive behaviour (alcoholism, drug use). In the opinion of our interviewees, occasional prejudicial behaviour does not lead directly to sub-standard care and poorer health, but it cannot be ruled out that it may indirectly contribute to it, in case the patient does not seek medical attention due to a former negative experience within healthcare. In terms of prevention, the education of both parties and the prevention of burnout of health providers are essential tasks for the future as this latter may also enhance the manifestation of prejudices. Conclusions Our study includes the investigation of a highly sensitive and understudied area of research. Our findings may provide a better understanding of Hungarian health professionals’ views on the effects of prejudice towards the Roma patients in healthcare, as well as about the need and strategies of prevention. Key messages • Direct relationship between healthcare providers’ prejudices and the lower quality of healthcare services or the worse health status of Roma patients may be excluded. • Indirect negative effects of prejudices may occur in cases where a patient refrains from seeking care due to previous perceived or experienced discrimination.
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