Doctor-patient communication among Turkish immigrants and Turkish-origin individuals in Germany: A comparative qualitative study

Okay A.

CONNECTIST-ISTANBUL UNIVERSITY JOURNAL OF COMMUNICATION SCIENCES, sa.69, ss.81-100, 2025 (ESCI, TRDizin)

Özet

This study examines the communication experiences of Turkish immigrants in Germany, focusing on two groups: those residing in Germany for more than 10 years and those residingthere for less than 10 years. Data were gathered through faceto-face and online interviews with each group's Turkish participants. The interview questions were based on theoretical models of doctor-patient communication using comparative content evaluation with descriptive and directed qualitative analysis. Turkish individuals living in Germany for over ten years have reported communicating better with doctors and becoming familiar with the healthcare system. This enables more effective health discussions and easier appointment and treatment plan navigation. However, cultural challenges persist in this regard. Those in Germany for less than 10 years face greater obstacles, particularly with language. They struggle to understand medical terminology and doctors' recommendations, which limits their healthcare benefits. Their unfamiliarity with the system also complicates appointments and prescriptions. The analysis revealed that while longer residency improves doctor communication, significant challenges remain in the doctor-patient relationship, with cultural differences and language barriers affecting healthcare quality, particularly among newer immigrants.