Main objective
The overall aim of this pilot study is to explore factors that affect the utilization of health services provided to children and youth subjected to FGM/C.
Subsidiary objectives
The specific objectives are: 1) Explore the health seeking behavior of parents/guardians of children subjected to FGM/C. 2) Explore the availability, Accessibility and acceptability of the health services provided to children and youth subjected to FGM/C.
Method
The study adopted a qualitative method design. 16 in-depth interviews with purposefully selected parents/guardians, female youth (15-25 years old) and key informants were conducted. All recorded interviews were transcribed verbatim, coded and thematically analyzed. Ethical clearance was obtained from the Norwegian Social Science Data Services (NSD).
Further information
Findings from this pilot study, together with other questions that address the organization of the health services, will form the basis for a PhD project within the framework of a Research Council funded project ”Physical and mental health care for girls and women with FGM/C” in the period 2017 – 2020.
The final results will provide unique and new knowledge necessary for strengthening both healthcare provision and utilization for this vulnerable group both in Norway and internationally. The close collaboration between NKVTS and Norwegian Ministry of children, equality and social inclusion (BLD) and the Directorate of Health (H.dir) is a particular strength. It will ensure that the results of this study will not only be disseminated, but will also be translated into action by key decision makers in Norway.