Health experiences of Suva's urban poor : a case study of garment factory workers

Abstract

This research paper describes research conducted about the health experiences of a group of urban poor in Suva, Fiji. Two groups of people were involved: a group of urban poor - garment factory workers and a small selection of people who influence health policy. The overall aims of the research were to gain understanding of health experiences of the urban poor and the dominant health context they live within, and to assist the garment factory workers in contributing to the establishment of a health service at their workplace. A qualitative methodology was employed in the form of a participatory approach through focus groups and individual interviews with garment factory workers. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with policy-influencers. The results suggest that the urban poor lack a voice in the creation of health policy and service provision. They also provide evidence that those who influence policy function predominantly within a medical model of health, while the garment factory workers (urban poor) take a more holistic viewpoint. This disparity means that policy often falls short in providing for the urban poor. Linked with this medical model approach is the dominance of particular knowledge systems to, the detriment of health and well-being. The results also provide some evidence as to how power is maintained and how Western ideas can dominate.