Health needs of migrant Vietnamese women in south-west Brisbane: An exploratory study

This study was conducted in the southwest area of Brisbane, Australia, and is designed to explore and assess the health needs of Vietnamese migrant women. The needs of this group are becoming increasingly urgent due to ageing of the original immigrant refugee community and decreased capacity for support from their children and families. The study used a qualitative research strategy involving focus groups and in-depth interviews with Vietnamese women between 18-65 years and interviews with Vietnamese health care providers. It shows that the women have had to deal with culture shock, low self-esteem, lack of friends and relatives, unrecognized professional skills and most importantly in health terms, low socioeconomic status. Significant barriers to access health services and to improved health and well-being were also identified, such as language difficulties, transportation, time, and knowledge about health education. Recognition of specific requirements of sub-populations as well as broader socio-economic and cultural determinants of health should be a guide to more effective planning and implementation of health promotion strategies. The changing needs, over time, of these sub-populations should also be recognized.