Examining the Links Between Communication and Optimal Outcomes in Foreign Domestic Workers’ Perceived Health-Care Experiences: An Analysis of Proximal and Intermediate Outcomes

Abstract

Filipina and Indonesian domestic workers constitute the largest ethnic minority group in Hong Kong. Yet, little empirical research has explored these foreign domestic workers’ (FDWs’) perceived health-care experiences when they work and live in Hong Kong. Invoking Street and colleagues’ model of pathways linking communication to outcomes, this article aims to unpack how FDWs’ communication with clinicians influences their perceived outcomes. Thirty domestic workers shared their experiences of using health-care services in Hong Kong and the subsequent outcomes. Their narratives were thematically analyzed. Results showed that 3 key themes related to proximal outcomes were important to FDWs with respect to their communication with clinicians. These were satisfaction with clinicians’ communicative behaviors, trust in clinicians, and their knowledge acquisition. Two major intermediate outcomes resulted from their proximal outcomes and directly impacted FDWs’ health and well-being. These were adherence to clinicians’ instructions and acquisition of self-care skills. Future research directions and implications for health communication interventions are discussed.