Exploring Healthcare Barriers: Perspectives of Immigrants and Providers

Immigrants in the United States face significant barriers when accessing healthcare, despite healthcare being recognized as a fundamental human right. This literature review explores six key barriers: language difficulties, discrimination, cost, cultural differences, transportation issues, and challenges navigating a new healthcare system. Through the analysis of 23 peer-reviewed articles, this review identifies how each barrier affects healthcare access, quality, and outcomes for immigrant populations. Language barriers interfere with effective communication and trust, while discrimination—rooted in race, ethnicity, nationality, and immigration status—reduces the likelihood of seeking care. Financial constraints, including lack of insurance and high out-of-pocket costs, prevent timely medical intervention. Cultural differences influence perceptions of illness, Western medicine, and the use of alternative therapies, while transportation difficulties limit appointment scheduling and availability. Finally, unfamiliarity with preventative care models and referral systems complicates healthcare navigation for many immigrants. These barriers are interconnected, increasing the disparities faced by immigrant communities. Understanding these challenges is critical for structuring a more equitable and culturally competent healthcare system. Future steps include direct survey-based research with immigrant patients and providers in Connecticut to further identify local gaps and inform interventions.