Healthcare barriers and policy implications for non-syrian refugees under international protection in Türkiye

Abstract

Türkiye hosts the largest number of refugees in the world, but research has mainly focused on Syrian refugees. This study fills this gap by exploring the experiences of non-Syrian refugees in accessing health services in Türkiye challenges they face. Using a qualitative methodology, 32 participants were selected, and data was collected through in-depth interviews. The analysis revealed three main themes: "health conditions of refugees," "difficulties in accessing health services" and "Professionals’ recommendations". The findings indicate that non-Syrian refugees face significant obstacles, including legal restrictions, financial constraints, language barriers, lack of knowledge of rights and discriminatory attitudes on the part of some health professionals. Access to mental health treatment was particularly difficult for non-Syrian refugees. This study has significant implications for policy makers and healthcare providers and identifies critical areas for intervention to improve access to essential healthcare services.