Date

11-11-2026

Department

School of Health Sciences

Degree

Doctor of Philosophy in Health Sciences (PhD)

Chair

Marybeth Mitcham

Keywords

disparities, underserved, intersectionality framework, healthcare

Disciplines

Medicine and Health Sciences

Abstract

The purpose of this descriptive phenomenological study was to better understand how disparities in healthcare impacted poor intergenerational health outcomes for underserved Black, Hispanic and Asian women residing in Dekalb County, Georgia. Qualitative research methods were used to collect data through in-depth semi-structured interviews combined with coding and thematic analysis. Recorded and transcribed interviews used member checking for accuracy which provided insight into the essence of their experiences with the phenomenon. Participants (n=15) shared descriptive lived experiences while facing the challenges of navigating systematic barriers with healthcare systems in their community. Findings highlighted intersectionality as the theoretical framework for the study which analyzed how the intersection of structural systems and social categories created barriers. Participants described their perception of how race/ethnicity, gender and socioeconomics created healthcare disparities. The study reinforced theories that intergenerational poor health outcomes may be the result of barriers, limited access to quality care, fears and mistrust towards healthcare systems built on oppression. Recommendations were offered for cultural competence education for healthcare providers. Future state and federal policies need to be effective in promoting equality in healthcare. Also, more evidence based studies are necessary to better understand the impact that healthcare disparities have on intergenerational health outcomes.

Download

Share

COinS