"Support us, so we can rise": A qualitative exploration of latinas' expectations of healthcare providers after intimate partner violence

Background: Due to multilevel factors, it is estimated that fewer than half of Latinas in the U.S who experience Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) access the resources they need. However, among those who do seek help, approximately 35% turn to a clinic or health center. This positions front-line healthcare providers (HCPs) as key actors in mitigating barriers to care. Delivering survivor-centered care, however, requires a nuanced understanding of Latina survivors' expectations of HCPs, grounded in their lived experiences and the structural contexts that shape their lives.

Objectives: This study aimed to explore Latina survivors' expectations of healthcare providers during IPV disclosure and help-seeking.

Design: A qualitative descriptive study guided by Liang et al.'s help-seeking theory.MethodsTwenty-five Latina IPV survivors living in South Florida were purposively recruited. Data collection included socio-demographic questionnaires and in-depth interviews (23 in Spanish, 2 in English/mixed). Interviews were transcribed and analyzed thematically in English by bilingual researchers. This study adheres to the SRQR Checklist.

Results: Participants shared five key themes under the overarching concept "Support us, so we can rise", including 1) direct assessment, "If you ask us, we are going to tell"; 2) non-judgmental listening, "Create a supportive space"; 3) proactive referral and follow-up; 4) tailored support systems and social services; 5) delivery of educational interventions. Culturally responsive, empowering, and sustained provider engagement were seen as essential to fostering disclosure, resilience, and recovery.

Conclusion: Future research should prioritize healthcare provider-led interventions and educational strategies that foster trust, safety, and empowerment while also facilitating a sustained help-seeking process. This includes proactive referrals and a thoughtful balance between follow-up care and respect for the survivor's autonomy. Incorporating a culturally specific perspective is critical to addressing the evolving needs of this population and advancing equity in care delivery.