Educational and cultural determinants of Roma access to health services Cover Image

Edukacyjne i kulturowe uwarunkowania dostępu Romów do usług medycznych
Educational and cultural determinants of Roma access to health services

Author(s): Marcin Szewczyk
Subject(s): Politics / Political Sciences, Social Sciences, Sociology, Health and medicine and law, Ethnic Minorities Studies
Published by: Muzeum Okręgowe w Tarnowie
Keywords: Roma; health;health education;health service

Summary/Abstract: Worse health status of Roma in comparison to the rest of the population is a fact. The basis for the change in this situation is to identify the causes of this problem. One of its manifestations is limited access to medical services. It arises primarily from cultural factors and gaps in education. Also the discrimination that they face when using health services due to lack of education. However, it relates to the insufficient knowledge of the medical staff. Because they do not know or do not understand their culture. This leads to misunderstanding and discrimination. Roma often do not accept the prophylaxis and immunization, because they do not understand their impact. Often for the best recognize conventional treatments, which are not effective. Consistent education as Roma and emergency medical services staff can change this situation. However, to compensate for the health of the Roma to the average mainstream need first of all to bring them out of poverty, provide adequate housing , integrated into the labor market. Significant reduction in the level of social exclusion will bring lasting results in the health of the population of Roma.

  • Issue Year: 6/2013
  • Issue No: 1
  • Page Range: 173-186
  • Page Count: 14
  • Language: English, Polish, Romany