Healthcare Experiences of Marginalized Groups Living in the Appalachian Region.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to describe the healthcare experiences of individuals identifying with marginalized groups in the North Central Appalachian region of the United States. DESIGN: Qualitative descriptive using conventional content analysis. SAMPLE: Purposive sampling was used to recruit 11 participants from different marginalized groups living within the Appalachian region. MEASUREMENTS: The semi-structured interview script was developed based on a review of the literature, feedback from stakeholders and providers, and the social determinants of health framework. RESULTS: Five themes emerged from the data: (1) navigating intrapersonal and systems-related barriers to care, (2) being overlooked, invalidated, and dehumanized by others, (3) feeling judged, stereotyped, and stigmatized when receiving care, (4) assembling courage to advocate for self and others, and (5) establishing meaningful, respectful, and inclusive relationships. CONCLUSION: All participants reported experiences of healthcare discrimination, stigmatization, or judgement when interacting with healthcare providers, which underscores the importance of establishing trustful relationships through the provision of respectful and inclusive care. Findings offer implications for rural healthcare education and practice, particularly as it relates to barriers to care and the subsequent impact on health outcomes for marginalized populations.