Because Ethiopians are accustomed to receiving antibiotics or other medications for every illness, they feel it is a waste of time to go to a doctor if no medication is given, even for a minor illness. This is a common point of dissatisfaction with health care in Seattle. The businesslike and direct approach of Western doctors is in contrast with the more interpersonal approach of Ethiopian doctors. For example, an Ethiopian doctor will never inform a patient of a terminal diagnosis. Instead the doctor will tell a close relative.
Language is also a problem.
Ethiopians who come from rural areas have very limited English language skills. Although interpreters may be provided, the interpreters are not always appropriate. Because of these differences, patients often feel they cannot express all their needs and may not trust the medications prescribed. The cost of health care is a problem for many Ethiopians. Those who cannot afford to pay are afraid to use the health care system.