Community Expectations of Ethnic Health Workers: Implications for Best Practice

Abstract

The manner in which people from non-English speaking background (NESB) communities seek health services in Australia is not well understood. Hence, best practices in immigrant health service delivery are not well articulated. This paper is a report of a study that explored what members of ethnic communities want from ethnic health workers. Interviews and focus group discussions were held with key informants and members of the Cambodian, Greek, Italian, Vietnamese and Chinese communities in Adelaide. The main themes identified from the research data were: the understanding of the role of the ethnic health worker; important attributes of an ethnic health worker; and the length of time an ethnic health worker is needed in a community. Participants reported that ethnic health workers were expected to help out with a broad range of problems, but were needed principally to mediate between clients and the bureaucracy for health and other matters. A client's ability to communicate with the ethnic health worker and to develop a trusting relationship determined how the ethnic health worker was used. Practical matters related to settlement in Australia set the priority for assistance in the early stages of residence. although ongoing language differences created a demand for special assistance even after 20-40 years. Implications for best practice are discussed, and the paper concludes with suggestions for changes to improve how health services are provided.