Healthcare Workers’ Perspectives on Psychosocial Needs of Immigrant Patients with Drug Resistant Tuberculosis

Patients with drug resistant tuberculosis in Norway are often from immigrant backgrounds. In addition to undergoing long-term and demanding treatment, many face challenges related to their recent arrival in the country. This study aims to explore healthcare workers' perspective of psychosocial needs of these patients, focusing on challenges such as cultural barriers, communication, and the impact of social and economic conditions on patient adherence and well-being. By addressing these challenges, the study seeks to contribute to improved care strategies for immigrant patients with drug resistant tuberculosis. Methods: A qualitative research approach was employed, involving 19 semi-structured interviews with healthcare workers; eleven nurses and six physicians, recruited from three university hospitals and primary healthcare of two municipalities. The study used thematic analysis to examine the data, with an emphasis on identifying patterns in participants' experiences and assessments. Results: Hospital-based participants primarily described the psychosocial needs of patients during hospital isolation, while those working in primary healthcare mainly associated patients' needs with the delivery of tuberculosis medications. All participants emphasized that caring for immigrants with drug resistant tuberculosis involves addressing the diverse needs of individuals, distinguishing between newly arrived refugees, integrated immigrants, and well-educated migrant workers or foreign students. The thematic analysis identified four main themes: Caring for immigrants with diverse backgrounds and needs; The importance of trust and communication; Psychosocial needs during hospital isolation; Are outpatients` psychosocial needs recognized? Conclusion: Trust in the healthcare system and effective communication emerged as essential for building relationships and addressing patients’ psychosocial needs. These factors underscore the importance of providing tailored, culturally sensitive care to ensure patients' understanding of and adherence to treatment and follow-up. The findings highlight the need to understand the psychosocial needs of both hospitalized patients and outpatients.