Integrating migrants into healthcare systems: public health strategies and policy priorities

Purpose Identifying the factors that affect migrants' access to healthcare services is critical not only for the sustainability of healthcare systems, but also for reducing health inequalities, preventing the spread of disease, and improving public health indicators. The aim of this study is to generate prioritized policy strategies to improve migrants' access to health services. Design/methodology/approach The factors affecting migrants' access to health services are weighted using the SF-DEMATEL method. In addition, a ranking analysis was conducted using the SF-TOPSIS method for G7 countries to identify good policy examples that should be followed. This prioritization approach serves as evidence-based guidance for public health policymakers. Findings The analysis results show that the most important criterion affecting the process is the lack of integration into the health system (w=0.146). The second most important factor is language and communication barriers (w = 0.145). The country with the best practice is the United Kingdom with a weight of 0.883. Research limitations/implications In the health sector, where resources are scarce, access to health services is important. The problems faced by migrants make it difficult for them to access health services. The main contribution of this study is to identify priority strategies with novel methods. Policymakers should place solutions to integration and language barriers at the center of public health strategies in order to ensure equal access to health services. Originality/value This is the first study to address the issues of immigrants and access to healthcare using the DEMATEL method integrated with spherical fuzzy numbers.