Co-creation of migrant health interventions in Portugal: Insights from the VO(I)CES project

Abstract Background International migration is increasing both globally and in Europe, highlighting the need for responsive interventions that cater to the diverse needs and strengths of migrants. Although genuine involvement of stakeholders in the design and implementation of interventions is vital to enhance their relevance, responsiveness, and ownership, co-created migrant health interventions remain limited. This study aims to address this gap by collaboratively developing health literacy interventions with meaningful involvement from migrants and professionals from both the social and health sectors. Methods As part of the VO(I)CES project, twelve idea-generation workshops were conducted in Portugal, applying the Ophelia (Optimising Health Literacy and Access) process, engaging over 70 stakeholders (migrants, social and healthcare professionals). To guide discussions, these workshops used case vignettes developed from 16 health literacy profiles that were identified in a previous study among 1,126 migrants. The discussions aimed at eliciting detailed insights into the potential actions that are responsive to migrants’ challenges. Results Several key interventions were identified by the stakeholders, including the enhancement of cultural and linguistic training for healthcare providers, the use of community health agents/mediators to improve service delivery and community engagement, and the creation and dissemination of multilingual, multi-format health information materials. Specific interventions for groups experiencing increased vulnerabilities such as pregnant women were also proposed, alongside suggestions for creating citizen spaces and improving digital skills among healthcare staff. Conclusions The co-creation approach facilitated the development of tailored context-specific interventions that are anticipated to enhance health literacy, improve healthcare accessibility, and promote health equity for migrants. Key messages • Ideas Generation Workshops provide a platform for a wide range of groups to have their say and know their voice is being heard. • Co-creation tailors interventions to diverse needs, avoiding a one-size-fits-all approach.