Recreational‐vehicle‐dwelling American nomads' experiences seeking healthcare: A qualitative field study

Abstract

Aim

To explore the experiences of recreational-vehicle-dwelling American nomads when seeking healthcare in the United States.

Design

This exploratory, qualitative study employed interpretive description design to maintain a disciplinary focus in nursing.

Methods

Twenty-five participants were recruited from campgrounds in eight states. Semi-structured interviews were conducted face-to-face. Thematic analysis was conducted using a phronetic iterative approach.

Results

Three overarching themes described participants' experiences seeking healthcare: overwhelming logistics, don't need healthcare, and orchestrating a web of care.

Conclusion

Recreational-vehicle-dwelling nomads in the United States face additional complexity when accessing healthcare related to seeking care in unfamiliar locations and policies that prevent the portability of healthcare across state lines.

Implications

More research is needed to evaluate solutions to improve healthcare access for recreational-vehicle-dwelling nomads. Nurses and policymakers should consider healthcare practices through the lens of nomads' lifestyle mobility. The impact of policy decisions on people who are geographically mobile should be considered, and barriers to healthcare portability should be addressed.

Impact

This was the first study focused on the healthcare experiences of recreational-vehicle-dwelling nomads in the United States. Nomads face additional complexity and barriers to healthcare access. Some nomads developed strategies to overcome barriers, while others disengaged from healthcare. The findings will impact researchers and nurses who study and care for nomads.

Reporting Method

The SRQR reporting guidelines were followed.

Patient or Public Contribution

Recreational-vehicle-dwelling nomads reviewed the recruitment flyer and interview guide and provided input on recruitment methods and sites.