J Health Care Poor Underserved. 2025;36(4):1240-1254. doi: 10.1353/hpu.2025.a975585.
ABSTRACT
Universal health care aims to provide effective and affordable health services to everyone. However, immigrant women often experience worse maternal and child health outcomes than their indigenous counterparts, including higher risks of mental health issues, premature child births, and maternal mortality. This study examined the barriers and facilitators to maternal health service use among immigrants in the Tamale Metropolis in Ghana. Using a qualitative approach, 30 immigrant women, including pregnant women and new mothers, were recruited through snowball sampling. Key informant interviews were conducted at six health facilities. The findings identified barriers to accessing care, such as language difficulties, concerns about privacy, and perceived discrimination. On the other hand, supportive factors included social support, perceived quality of care, accessibility of National Health Insurance, and outreach programs. To improve maternal and child health services for immigrant women, it is essential to address these barriers and strengthen the supportive factors.
PMID:41355641 | DOI:10.1353/hpu.2025.a975585
