Transparency (KAP) of Healthcare by African Students in Russia

Generally speaking, migration is an extensive topic with different aspects. One such aspect is health, which significantly reflects on the host country. This study aimed to analyze African students studying in Russia's knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions regarding the transparency of the Russia government's healthcare system. In particular, this paper sought to evaluate the understanding, disposition, and perception of African students with receiving healthcare in a host country like Russia, where language and other sociocultural factors, play a major role in the daily activities. Three hypotheses were tested using a mixed-method approach, combining qualitative (five semi-structured interviews) and quantitative studies (85 completed structured surveys). All three of the null hypotheses, however, were accepted, suggesting that sociocultural, language, and quality-of-life determinants have no impact on how transparent the Russian healthcare system is. However, a descriptive examination of the data revealed that language significantly affects the healthcare system's transparency, creating a perception that access to healthcare services and information is not equally provided. It is important to note that the data collected were analysed thematically and with the statistical tool, R. using regression analysis. In conclusion, the study provided recommendations focused on social integration and inclusion in the healthcare system for African students in Russia. Specifically, by providing adequate information and healthcare professionals who understand other languages, especially English, the transparency of healthcare system should be improved. The study also recommends further research to be carried out in order to be able to generalize findings. Key words: healthcare, Africans, migration, language, sociocultural, Russia, transparency, perception, attitude, knowledge, quality of life.