12. Factors Influencing Indigenous Patients in Baja Verapaz, Guatemala

• In Event: Scholar to Scholar Presents: Dialogues about Communication and Culture

Abstract

This ethnographic qualitative study explores the factors influencing Achi patients in provider-patient interactions in Baja Verapaz, Guatemala utilizing participant observation, twenty-four field interviews, and thematic analysis. The findings reveal that patients are influenced by the reciprocal interaction among four major factors: environment, beliefs, emotional effect, and experiences. Identifying and understanding the factors influencing indigenous patients in rural communities provide the first step to improving healthcare and overall health.

Author

• Laura Burton, Univ of New Mexico