Background: Persons of Somali origin constitute an important population group in Sweden, and their health needs are of public health interest. Transcultural care and person centered care are two theoretical perspectives that can inform health care staff in caring for patients of different cultural background. Aim: The aim of this study was to examine how migrated Somalis perceive health and experience their encounters with Western health systems; furthermore to examine the existing literature for recommendations on how such encounters can be mitigated. Method: A literature review was conducted, identifying ten studies with qualitative designs which findings were synthesized. Results: Three themes emerged: colliding beliefs on health and illness, various experiences in encountering Western healthcare and helpful practices in the care encounter. Preventive measures were perceived as foreign and spiritual aspects of health as central. Both facilitating and discriminating experiences were described. Mitigating recommendations included involvement in decision making, increased competence in communication and sufficient time to allow for expression of explanatory models and adapted information in consultations. Conclusion: The findings of this study can add to the frame of reference of health staff who apply the principles of person centered care in serving persons of Somali origin.