The AAPI Experience: How Changing Asian-American and Pacific-Islander Populations in America Are Impacted in Healthcare

Author: Zana Morshed

Field of Study: Social Sciences

Faculty Mentors: Pierce Dignam

Easel: 26

Timeslot: Midday

Abstract: Over the last 20 years, the Asian-American and Pacific-Islander (AAPI) population has steadily increased within the United States. Due to this rapid increase, many systems, including American healthcare systems, have not accommodated this population. Healthcare research within the United States is focused on Chinese and Vietnamese populations due to historical connections with their country of origin. South, Southeast, West Asians, and mixed individuals are not accounted for and are often overlooked. This study focuses on the experiences of all AAPI individuals with their healthcare providers and how their racial background influences these interactions. Hour-long interviews are conducted detailing participant’s relationships with their providers and how their identities are accounted for in their care. Grounded theory is used to code for these interviews. Findings suggest there are differences in treatment based on the ethnic identity of the individual.