Unseen Struggles: Visualizing Barriers in Healthcare Access and Utilization Among Skilled Immigrants in America.

Background: While much of the existing literature focuses on immigrant populations' general access to care, limited attention has been given to the experiences of skilled immigrant workers—a growing majority of immigrants in the United States. This study fills a critical gap by examining the unique...

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Detalles Bibliográficos
Publicado en:Health & Social Care in the Community Vol. 2026; pp. 1 - 12
Autor principal: Imanpour, Sara
Formato: pictorial research tables/charts Journal Article
Publicado: Wiley-Blackwell 8/31/2026
Acceso en línea:Ver este registro en EBSCOhost
Descripción
Sumario:Background: While much of the existing literature focuses on immigrant populations' general access to care, limited attention has been given to the experiences of skilled immigrant workers—a growing majority of immigrants in the United States. This study fills a critical gap by examining the unique barriers that skilled immigrants encounter when accessing and utilizing healthcare services. Method: Using photovoice methodology, this study engaged skilled immigrants in visually documenting and narrating their healthcare experiences. Transcripts from focus group discussions were analyzed using grounded theory, with Kilbourne's framework for health disparities guiding the interpretation of findings across individual, provider, and system‐level domains. Results: At the individual level, participants reported limited health literacy and a fear of being judged or discriminated against, which hindered their ability to advocate for their health. Cultural disconnects during medical encounters further exacerbated these challenges. At the provider level, participants identified a lack of holistic and culturally responsive care. System‐level barriers included fragmented care coordination and the absence of outreach programs to engage and support skilled immigrant communities. Conclusions: Skilled immigrants face a distinct set of healthcare barriers shaped by cultural dissonance, perceived stigma, and systemic inattention to their needs. Their reluctance to seek clarification or assert their health concerns—often rooted in their high‐status professional backgrounds—underscores the inadequacy of a one‐size‐fits‐all healthcare system. Addressing these multifaceted barriers is crucial to advancing health equity and designing inclusive care models that recognize the complex realities of skilled immigrant populations.