LATINA IMMIGRANTS, HIV, AND THEIR EXPIERENCES WITH HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS IN THE U.S. AND THEIR HOME COUNTRY

Abstract

The intersection of factors associated with immigration in the Latina population and available culturally sensitive health care has not been well examined. There is a scarcity of research available that examines factors specific to the Latina population that contribute to HIV/AIDS education, screening, and care, despite the vulnerable state of Latinas for contracting HIV/AIDS. For the Latina immigrant population, perceptions of U.S. providers of patients in relation to encounters with providers from their countries of origin are important, and may influence subsequent patient and healthcare provider interactions, including potential for screening, education, and care in the U.S. Two articles were completed for this study: (a) a systematic review of literature presented on the efficacy for using Latino community-based organizations as a more culturally appropriate and effective way to raise the awareness of need for HIV information and screenings with Latinas, and (b) a community-based participatory research study, pertaining to sexual health education and screening of Latina immigrants. Based on these findings, recommendations are made for researchers, healthcare providers, and policymakers who work with Latina immigrants seeking or in need of HIV/AIDS education, screening, or health care.