Is there effect of systematic information about the Danish healthcare system on newly arrived immigrants’ knowledge of the healthcare system

Background Equity in access to healthcare is one of the fundamental values in the Danish healthcare system. However, previous studies have revealed healthcare utilisation differences between immigrants and Danish-born and inappropriate healthcare use by immigrants. Various possible explanations for these differences have been proposed, including barriers in access to healthcare, in particular unfamiliarity with the healthcare system. To investigate this explanation, this study investigated whether there is effect of systematic information about the Danish healthcare system on newly arrived immigrants’ knowledge of the healthcare system. Methods Quantitative data from 2012 and 2013 stemmed from a prospective controlled intervention study among newly-arrived immigrants. The study population consisted of 1,158 immigrants aged 18-64 attending two language schools in Copenhagen. Two intervention groups received a course or written information material on the Danish healthcare system, respectively, while the control group received none (current situation). Survey data included true or false facts questions on basic knowledge about access to and structure of the Danish healthcare system as well as self-assessed knowledge. Registry data included sociodemographic and socioeconomic characteristics. Differences in the proportions were tested using chi2 test, and analyses were performed using logistic regression. Results At baseline, in case of illness, 64% of the immigrants reported that they knew who to contact, 29% said sometimes and 4% no. In case of accident, 61% reported that they knew who to contact, 19% said sometimes and 14% no. The effects of the intervention will be presented in terms of how it affected the participants' knowledge about the healthcare system, including the correctness of the true and false questions as well as self-assessed knowledge. Conclusions An adequate and appropriate healthcare-seeking behaviour can serve as an indicator of the integration of immigrants within the area of health in society; hence, linking health, human rights, and equity in health. The results may form the basis of national and international changes in the reception of immigrants and thus, for a more appropriate contact with the healthcare system among immigrants. Key messages Navigation in a new healthcare system may be a challenge. To reduce health disparities, this investigation addressed whether an intervention affect knowledge of the healthcare system among immigrants.