Perspectives on primary care management of chronic hepatitis B in refugees: findings from qualitative interviews with healthcare providers in Melbourne, Victoria.

BACKGROUND: In Australia, healthcare providers face significant challenges in meeting the niche health needs of refugees. Social determinants of health, including limited health literacy and finances, complicate refugees' access to treatment for conditions, such as chronic hepatitis B (CHB). Understanding the strategies utilised by a specialised general practice for refugees can offer guidance for treating this population. The aim of this study was to explore how primary care is currently managing CHB care tailored to refugees and to identify areas for potential improvements.

METHODS: Between August and December 2024, we conducted 15 semi-structured interviews with nine general practitioners, four nurses, one pharmacist and one infectious disease specialist. We used a convenience sample and snowballing; most participants worked at a refugee-focused general practice in the west of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. All interviews were recorded and transcribed; data were analysed descriptively.

RESULTS: Primary healthcare providers in our study recognised the challenges of treating refugees with CHB, including low health literacy, and the cost of providing and seeking care. However, when compared with hospital services, the benefits of primary care include community integration and location, rapport development, and the availability of interpreter services. Subsidising primary care provider training and other costs were recommended.

CONCLUSIONS: Primary care may be better positioned than hospital services to treat refugees with CHB. These findings support funding and improving CHB management in primary care to meet the needs of refugees, which will lead to better health outcomes for this disadvantaged population.