Development of a scale of attitudes towards foreign health workers

Abstract

Purpose  The purpose of this study is to develop a scale to assess public attitudes towards the inclusion of foreign healthcare workers in the Turkish healthcare system.

Theoretical framework  The research idea and model were developed based on a review of the literature.

Design/methodology/approach  Within the scope of the study, the scale development process was applied. The study sample consists of 500 people living in the Karabağlar district of Izmir, Türkiye.

Findings  Factor analysis revealed a structure consisting of four factors and 24 items. These factors were named “Negative Perspective,” “Professional Confidence,” “Acceptance” and “Education Policy” to best reflect the items grouped under them. The structure determined by factor analysis was confirmed using confirmatory factor analysis.

Practical & social implications of research  With globalization, foreign healthcare professionals can work in many countries besides their own. This study, which examines public attitudes towards foreign healthcare professionals working or intending to work in Türkiye, is expected to guide subsequent studies in the field. This demonstrates the social impact of the study.

Originality/value  A scale not previously developed in the literature was developed within the scope of this study. This scale is original in terms of methodology and human resources.

Keywords:
Foreign healthcare workers; Turkish healthcare system; attitude scale; Türkiye; scale development