Medical Students’ Opinions Regarding Possible Influence of Culture and Social Issues on Health Seeking Behaviour

Introduction: Cultural, social and ethnic issues have a major impact on healthcare and care-seeking behaviour. Xavier University School of Medicine admits students from a diversity of backgrounds. A cultural beliefs project where interested students were invited to present about their ‘country of origin’ was initiated. Participant perceptions about the project, and information regarding their preparation for the same and their perceptions about migration and cultural diversity was explored using focus group discussions (FGD). Materials and Methods: The opinions of interested students regarding possible influence of cultural and social issues on healthcare and healthcare seeking behaviour was studied. Twelve students eventually presented. These students were provided guidance to initiate their project. Participants presented briefly about their country of origin. Following the presentation the students were invited to participate in FGD. The FGDs were held in a neutral venue and were audio-recorded. The recordings were listened to by the authors multiple times and written transcripts created. Statements were grouped together using the various categories mentioned in the FGD guide. Results: A total of 11 individuals participated in the FGDs. Among the countries presented were: Hispaniola (Haiti and the Dominican Republic), Sri Lanka, Greece, Nigeria, Ethiopia, China, Venezuela, Iran, Jordan and Lebanon. Detailed information was obtained about the respondent’s perception on migrating to the adopted country, about participating in the cultural beliefs project, how they prepared their write-ups and presentations, influence of cultural issues on health and healthcare seeking behaviour. Their perceptions regarding practicing in a multicultural society, preparing for these challenges and whether the western political and cultural system adequately meets the needs of immigrants was also discussed. Conclusion: The presentations and interactions which occurred during the cultural beliefs project provided participants and members of the audience with information about the beliefs of the presented cultures with regard to health and healthcare seeking behaviour. A similar project could be considered with other interested students in the institution. A similar project may be useful in other schools with a diverse student population.