Transnational Healthcare Practices Among Migrants: A Concept Analysis

Aims

To present a conceptual definition of transnational healthcare in the context of migrant older adults.

Design

This article follows the Walker and Avant concept analysis framework to conduct an in-depth analysis of transnational healthcare.

Methods

Databases were searched for scholarly articles using keywords associated with transnational healthcare. The DistillerSR software was employed to screen articles for inclusion in the concept analysis. Titles and abstracts of 390 articles were screened with 50 identified for full-text screening. Thirty-seven articles were included to inform the concept analysis.

Data Sources

Social Science Citation Index (Clarivate), PsycInfo and CINAHL databases. Search dates: March–May 2024.

Results

Defining attributes of the concept include cultural comfort and alignment, perceived quality and trust, integration barriers and experiences of discrimination, use of digital platforms and informal networks, challenges navigating host country health systems. Cases, antecedents, consequences, empirical referents and cultural considerations were used to shape a conceptual definition of transnational healthcare.

Conclusion

Transnational healthcare is defined as a practice involving those living outside of their country of origin seeking healthcare from that country of origin through physical or other means.

Implications for Professional Practice

This conceptual definition highlights the importance of understanding healthcare access, quality and continuity of care across national borders.

Impact

This study addresses gaps in available literature regarding transnational healthcare and its impacts on treatment outcomes, healthcare satisfaction and continuity of care in migrant communities.

Reporting Method

This article adheres to the PRISMA (2020) reporting guidelines for systematic reviews.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.