Exploring the quality of life of Filipino migrant workers in Hungary : barriers to healthcare access and impacts of migration on well-being

Abstract

The exponential growth of Filipino migrant workers or overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in Hungary (2,971% increase, 2018-2022) seeking financial stability, necessitates a comprehensive study on the quality of life (QOL), access to healthcare, and the impacts of migration on this expanding population. This surge marks a significant departure from Hungary’s historically restrictive immigration policies, as the nation welcomes foreign workers at an unprecedented scale due to shortage in skilled workers. This study targeted OFWs in rural Szabolcs-Szatmár-Bereg County using a mixed-methods approach. Quantitative data was gathered through the World Health Organization Quality of Life – Brief Version (WHOQOL-BREF) questionnaire and was computed and analysed as prescribed in the World Health Organisation (WHO) manual, while the qualitative data explored healthcare barriers and migration impacts and was scrutinised using thematic analysis. Results showed that the overall perceived QOL score (74.01 ± 20.59) and health status (67.11 ± 20.90) were at a good level, with positive scores across all domains (social, environment, psychological, and physical). Moreover, correlation tests indicate that all domains have a positive relationship with each other, signifying the need for a holistic approach in improving QOL, as the gain in one is a gain in others. In addition, differences in various demographic and socioeconomic factors such as age, education, income, job category and duration, and illness were found to be statistically significant when associated with QOL domains. Moreover, OFWs face healthcare access challenges due to communication, work, finances, psychology, and transportation. Migration impacts economics, social/cultural aspects, health, personal development, and overall life conditions. Recommendations are provided to improve well-being and successful integration.