Discrimination, difficulties in understanding and making themselves understood, differing ideas of what constitutes health and illness, or simply not knowing how the Swiss healthcare system works are among the various factors that can lead to individuals not receiving full access to healthcare services.
Migration and its consequences can cause a great sense of uncertainty and insecurity that has harmful effects on health. Racial discrimination, too, has a detrimental effect on the victims’ health.
A large proportion of healthcare workers come from a migrant background. Creating a discrimination-free work environment that recognises the diversity of the workforce not only helps to keep staff healthy, but is also good for patients.
Healthcare professionals must have the transcultural skills to meet the needs and requirements of an ever-more diverse population.
Further information is available in German, French and Italian.
Last modification 15.07.2020
