International students’ experiences with U.S. healthcare providers and antibiotics: Quantitative and qualitative data

Objectives: The goal of this article was to examine international students’ experiences with healthcare providers and antibiotic prescribing in their home countries versus in the United States. Participants: We collected survey and focus group data from international students from China, India, and South Korea. Methods: Both quantitative survey data and qualitative focus group data was collected. Focus group data was analyzed thematically. Results: Participants were moderately knowledgeable about antibiotics and antibiotic resistance, and reported that antibiotic access is generally more tightly controlled in the United States than at home. They also reported that aspects of the U.S. healthcare system such as insurance, pharmacies, and patient-provider communication present significant challenges, resulting in frustration. Conclusions: Providers can alleviate international students’ frustrations by clearly communicating the basis for their decisions about antibiotics and helping them navigate the healthcare system in the U.S.