Violence against women in the context of migration

Since the eighties the percentage of migrant women is increasing continually in Switzerland and presents a new challenge for the public health system. The article will point out specific aspects of migration which are particularly associated with violence against women, besides domestic and sexual violence in their marriages. A successful communication serves as a basis for a reasonable diagnosis, therapy and counselling in health services. Beyond overcoming language barriers, it is essential to consider the physician-patient interaction influenced by the social status and cultural background of each. By using two vignettes specific difficulties in medical encounters with migrant women will be demonstrated and possible interventions for clinical practice will be offered complemented by references on existing services in Switzerland. By an interdisciplinary co-operation of physicians, social workers, mediators, lawyers and anthropologists a professional care in face of these complex issues will be guaranteed.