Talking about TB: multicultural diversity and tuberculosis services in Waikato, New Zealand.

Abstract

The absence of health services oriented towards specific minority and refugee groups, and communication difficulties with healthcare providers, are important cultural barriers to TB control in Waikato. Recognition of the diversity of these populations, and the cultural and structural barriers that they face in accessing health services in Waikato and other similar health districts in New Zealand, is needed. The development of strategies is required to reduce barriers to TB treatment so that patients from diverse cultural backgrounds can be diagnosed early and effectively treated.