Access to Healthcare Among Sub-Saharan African International University Students: A Systematic Review Protocol

This systematic review aims to synthesize peer-reviewed evidence on healthcare access barriers and facilitators faced by Sub-Saharan African (SSA) university students studying abroad. Following PRISMA 2020 guidelines, it will systematically search major databases (PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Google Scholar) for English-language studies published from 2025 onward. The review focuses exclusively on SSA international students, examining availability/utilization of services, financial/cultural/policy barriers, and institutional facilitators. Expected outcomes include identifying key challenges (e.g., insurance complexity, language gaps), regional/demographic variations, and evidence-based recommendations. Findings will inform targeted interventions for universities and policymakers to improve healthcare equity. Results will be disseminated via peer-reviewed journals and conferences, addressing a critical gap in migrant health literature while supporting student well-being globally.