Understanding Low SES Latinas Beliefs of Healthcare Coverage

Erica Cruz, Purdue University

Abstract

There is a lack of understanding when it comes to designing healthcare coverage websites for underrepresented Latinos, and national reporting shows the Hispanic community is behind the rest of the population in the United States in obtaining healthcare coverage. The goal of this research was to understand the beliefs low SES Latinas’ have about healthcare coverage. This study provides insights into barriers to eGovernment adoption, focusing on Hispanic cultural and socioeconomic factors and designing for vulnerable populations. A total of 9 low SES Latinas from Northwest Indiana were interviewed about topics surrounding healthcare coverage. The results show that fear, mistrust, and information strongly shape beliefs about healthcare. The women interviewed felt fearful because of the many uncertainties surrounding healthcare coverage. Based on these interviews, I identify design implications for designing easy and accessible services for low SES Latinas and call for research and action to serve this underrepresented population.

Degree

M.S.

Advisors

Vorvoreanu, Purdue University.

Subject Area

Public policy|Hispanic American studies|Health care management

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