Abstract
Objectives
There are contradictory findings on health care utilization (HCU) of immigrants compared to native-born populations. Our study focuses on this topic using a population-based approach and differentiates generational cohorts of immigrants.
Methods
In a representative population survey in Germany (N = 2,510), immigrant background/generational cohort and HCU in the preceding 12 months were screened by means of self-rating instruments.
Results
11.1% (7.0% first and 4.1% second generation) of the sample are immigrants. No differences have been detect with regard to subjective state of health, satisfaction with life and with health and functional disabilities. First generation immigrants contacted a medical specialist less likely, but they more frequently use general practitioners (GPs) than the native-born Germans and the second generation immigrants.
Conclusions
First generation immigrants show remarkable differences in HCU compared to the native-born Germans and the second generation immigrants. Their HCU seems to be focused on primary care, and access to secondary care might be complicated. It seems relevant to especially pay attention to HCU of first generation immigrants and to support equal access to care for this subgroup.
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Acknowledgments
The study was supported by a grant from the German Research Foundation to Prof. Brähler, Prof. Martin and Prof. Rief (grant RI 574/14-1). No conflicts of interest have to be announced. The study has been reviewed by the ethics committee of the German Psychological Association.
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This paper belongs to the special issue “Migrants and ethnic minorities in Europe: new challenges for public health research and practice”.
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Glaesmer, H., Wittig, U., Braehler, E. et al. Health care utilization among first and second generation immigrants and native-born Germans: a population-based study in Germany. Int J Public Health 56, 541–548 (2011). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00038-010-0205-9
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00038-010-0205-9