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South Asians for Equitable (SAFE) Virtual Health: Understanding South Asian’s Experiences with Virtual Hospitals-at-Home
Emma Wong;
Mahabhir Kandola;
Kamal Arora;
Harroop Sharda;
Roman Deol;
Mary Jung;
Robert Paquin;
Maria Montenegro;
Megan MacPherson
ABSTRACT
Background:
Hospital-at-Home and virtual care models have the potential to improve healthcare delivery but may present unique challenges for ethnocultural communities.
Objective:
This study explores barriers and facilitators to Hospital-at-Home adoption among South Asian patients and caregivers.
Methods:
A qualitative study using semi-structured interviews was conducted with South Asian community members and healthcare providers in the Fraser Health region in British Columbia, Canada. Thematic analysis was used to identify key patterns in perceptions, experiences, and needs.
Results:
Participants expressed mixed views about Hospital-at-Home care, with concerns centering on digital literacy, language barriers, caregiver readiness, and home environment suitability. Facilitators included comfort at home, trust in providers, and alignment with cultural and religious values. Many participants were unaware of healthcare alternatives beyond emergency departments.
Conclusions:
Equitable implementation of Hospital-at-Home services for South Asian communities requires culturally tailored strategies that address digital access, health system awareness, and family caregiver roles.
Citation
Please cite as:
Wong E, Kandola M, Arora K, Sharda H, Deol R, Jung M, Paquin R, Montenegro M, MacPherson M
Hospital-at-Home for South Asian Communities in British Columbia, Canada: Qualitative Interview Study