Through qualitative interviews with six female survivors of intimate partner violence (IPV) in Germany, we explored their experiences with health and health care within the context of a universal access health system. Using phenomenological analysis, we learned that they view violence as a burden on health; expect health professionals to acknowledge the link between IPV and health with empathy; and experience barriers to acute mental health services despite a lack of financial barriers in seeking treatment. We discuss how our findings compare with other international research, as well as the implications for the health care system's response to IPV.
Through qualitative interviews with six female survivors of intimate partner violence (IPV) in Germany, we explored their experiences with health and health care within the context of a universal access health system. Using phenomenological analysis, we learned that they view violence as a burden on health; expect health professionals to acknowledge the link between IPV and health with empathy; and experience barriers to acute mental health services despite a lack of financial barriers in seeking treatment. We discuss how our findings compare with other international research, as well as the implications for the health care system's response to IPV.