Perceptions of African American women regarding health care

An exploratory study utilizing ethnographic, participatory and Afrocentric research methodologies was conducted to identify causative factors related to the reluctance of a large percentage of African American women to avail themselves and their children to available health care in San Joaquin County, California. Although this qualitative study sought the responses of only ten African American women, the use of a windshield survey, a 20-item demographic questionnaire, five descriptive questions, a 128-item guide to dialogue, and transcription of dialogue from serial 60-90 minute individual and group interview sessions resulted in the identification of ten taxonomies and five prominent themes operating among this group of participants. The findings implied the need for nursing measures to enhance personal empowerment of this historically underserved population; as well as the need for nursing education to incorporate cultural-specific health care practices in curricula.