Access to Healthcare for Immigrants

Access to healthcare can be determined by several factors (i.e. geographical location, income, insurance)–being an immigrant, especially a recent immigrant to the U.S., is one of these factors. In Albany, NY, the immigrant population has grown over the past few years and currently, 13.2% of the population consists of individuals that were not born in the U.S. (1). Coming to a new country presents many unique challenges, but access to healthcare is one that can prevent individuals from adjusting well and living a safe and healthy lifestyle.

Health Insurance

Due to their lack of citizenship after first moving to the U.S., health insurance options can be limited for immigrants, especially for undocumented immigrants (2). This limits access to many providers who only accept patients with insurance, and while undocumented immigrants can sometimes receive care from community health centers, this care is often only basic primary care or to be used in emergencies (2).

In New York state, all children can receive the Child Health Plus plan, regardless of their immigration status. This plan is comprehensive and includes preventative care, well-child visits, and emergency services (3). Additionally, pregnant women can receive Medicaid regardless of immigration status and some documented immigrants may qualify for the Essential Plan soon after they move to NY (2). However, if an individual does not fit into these categories, the only services that an undocumented immigrant may receive are emergency services (2). While this is beneficial, it leaves out the preventative care and services that can treat symptoms before they worsen beyond control.

Translation Services & Health Literacy

Many immigrant families, especially when they first immigrate to the U.S., are considered to have low English proficiency (LEP). This makes communication in healthcare settings a challenge and can be a barrier to receiving quality care, as the patient and provider cannot have a direct, fluid conversation. Some health care settings in New York have put up this ‘Language Identification Tool Poster’ that allows patients to point to their language, so that appropriate translation services may be provided.  A portion of the poster is shown below, with a link to the full poster here:

While resources such as this poster can help, patients and providers would still not be able to speak directly to each other, and would only be able to communicate through a translator.

Additionally, understanding health insurance options can also be difficult when there is a language barrier, as there are different requirements for each plan. A search engine can be found here for in-person help. This search engine consists of a directory of in-person helpers that can assist individuals in navigating the health system and health insurance plans specifically. While only eight languages are supported, including English, this service can benefit some individuals in understanding how to receive health services for themselves and their families.

COVID-19

With the current pandemic, language barriers present a unique challenge in being able to transmit public health information clearly to the general population. As immigrants make up a large portion of the population, it is essential that they understand basic information about the virus and are able to practice appropriate measures to limit the spread of the virus. Valleywise Health Medical Center in Arizona has made a series of videos available on Youtube that describe what COVID-19 is and what to do if you are sick. These videos have been made available in 12 languages, one of which can be played below.

These videos can be incredibly helpful for individuals that may not understand what is happening in their local communities as a result the virus, but coming across these videos may not be common for many immigrants, as they require some searching. It would therefore be helpful for similar resources and information to be sent to or made available to local communities, either in the style of videos or in pamphlet form.

While many resources exist to help immigrants navigate the healthcare system and obtain information about resources, these resources are not always used or made readily available to immigrant families. Many require searching and prior knowledge about websites and organizations that usually provide public health, insurance, and language services. In the future, it would be important to ensure that immigrants are aware of the resources that exist so that they can have access to the healthcare that they might need. What are some ways this could be done?

46,328 thoughts on “Access to Healthcare for Immigrants

  1. Awesome whips! How can I only join a blogging site if I want to practice at the same time as an individual changing your internet site? After much consideration, I was able to solve the problem, and I had a small commonality on this, and I provided a vibrant and clear strategy. 토토커뮤니티

    Reply

  2. Permainan Slot Gacor Gampang Menang menawarkan berbagai opsi pembayaran untuk menyetor dan menarik dana. Mesin Permainan Slot Gacor Gampang Menang ini didasarkan pada keberuntungan, ada beberapa strategi yang dapat digunakan pemain untuk meningkatkan peluang mereka untuk menang.

    Reply

  3. Thank you for giving useful information, i really enjoyed your post. i want to sharing information about wales ,things to do in wales .This unique Italianate village is famous for its colorful architecture and beautiful gardens. Wales has something to offer every traveler.

    Reply

  4. Educational Lab Equipment has an outstanding team of hardworking professionals Maths Lab Kit Manufacturers. We take immense pride in designing and developing the most comprehensive range of Mathematics Lab Kit.

    Reply

  5. Facing a problem with the Wavlink AX1800 setup? Not to worry follow the detailed instructions step by step to connect your extender to your home or office wireless network with ease. The WL-WN573HX1 is compatible with the most recent wireless standards, such as 80 MHZ and 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6). You can simultaneously stream on two different bands thanks to the device. It operates at 2.4GHz (574Mbps) and 5G speeds (1200Mbps). Wavlink AX1800 uses Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) technology for faster internet speeds, more power, and less network congestion than previous-generation wifi range extenders.

    Reply

  6. The financial services, information & communications and professional services sectors continued to register strong wage increases in 2022, alongside sustained manpower demand in these industries. 먹튀검증

    Reply

  7. I found your this post while searching for some related information on blog search…Its a good post..keep posting and update the information . This is a great article and great read for me. 토토사이트

    Reply

  8. outlook unlicensed product
    is a famous generalized email-gathering personal information manager software used by millions of people all over the world. Although, Unlicensed product outlook needs a license or subscription.

    Reply

  9. Laboratory Glassware is vital for every lab where research and experimentation are conducted. The chemistry and biology labs find quality Laboratory Glassware more of a necessity than an option. This is why labs are seeing a great need for Laboratory Glassware manufacturers across the nations.

    Reply

  10. Experience unparalleled comfort and chic loungewear options at Labrisa, designed to make your downtime truly indulgent. Explore our collection and elevate your relaxation game with effortless style.

    Reply

  11. I havent any word to appreciate this post…..Really i am impressed from this post….the person who create this post it was a great human..thanks for shared this with us. kontol kuda

    Reply

  12. Companionship services are typically provided by Escorts in Lahore
    and involve providing companionship or a feeling of closeness to their clients. This can include activities such as dinner dates, going for walks,

    Reply

  13. We place a high emphasis on transparent communication and are dedicated to delivering packaging solutions that seamlessly align with your unique vision.

    A Custom Boxes

    Reply

  14. A bridal nighty is a great addition to any wardrobe. It is designed to be comfortable and breathable, making it ideal for lounging and sleeping. Its stylish design and fabric accents will make you look and feel your best. With a wide range of sizes and styles, you’re sure to find the perfect sexy nighty to suit your needs. Choose from an array of fabrics and designs to express your unique sense of style. So make sure to add a sexy nighty to your wardrobe today and feel confident and sexy no matter what the night has in store.

    Reply

  15. mathematics assignment help Australia is a game-changer! As a student, I often found math assignments challenging, but their assistance has made a significant difference. They provide clear explanations, and the support team is responsive and helpful. I’m grateful for their service and the boost it has given to my academic performance.

    Reply

  16. Link untuk mendaftar di situs slot server Thailand QQMEGA368 yang mudah menang sekarang! Bisa deposit QRIS, Bank, E-Wallet dan Pulsa cuman 10 Ribu!

    Reply

  17. Selain itu, QQMEGA368 juga dikenal dengan beragam promosi menarik yang mereka tawarkan. Mulai dari Slot Bonus 100%, jaminan pengembalian 50% untuk kerugian, bonus deposit harian 10%, hingga bonus saldo berkisar antara 5 ribu hingga 10 ribu.

    Reply

  18. Game Slot Terbaik ini adalah versi digital dari mesin slot tradisional yang ditemukan di kasino darat. Mereka dirancang untuk meniru pengalaman bermain mesin slot fisik, namun dengan kenyamanan tambahan karena bisa bermain Game Slot Terbaik ini dari kenyamanan rumah Anda sendiri. 

    Reply

  19. Plumbers are responsible for diagnosing and repairing plumbing problems. This includes fixing leaks, clogs, broken pipes, and malfunctioning fixtures. Regular maintenance, such as pipe inspections and cleaning, is also part of their duties. سباك

    Reply

  20. nice bloghttp://pers.udec.cl/barlow-tapped-to-head-new-gmc-prep-art/#comment-126179

    Reply

  21. I really wanted to compose a simple note to appreciate you for all the marvelous tips and hints you are posting on this website. My prolonged internet investigation has at the end been honored with pleasant strategies to talk about with my classmates and friends. I ‘d assert that most of us visitors actually are quite blessed to dwell in a fine network with many special professionals with valuable suggestions. I feel really grateful to have used the website page and look forward to plenty of more fabulous minutes reading here. Thank you once again for everything. evolution

    Reply

  22. I’ll immediately clutch your rss feed as I can not find your email subscription hyperlink or e-newsletter service. Do you have any? Kindly allow me realize in order that I may subscribe. Thanks. shillong teer common number

    Reply

  23. Thank you for your post, I look for such article along time, today i find it finally. this post give me lots of advise it is very useful for me. diziwatch

    Reply

  24. This is such a great resource that you are providing and you give it away for free. I love seeing blogs that understand the value. I’m glad to have found this post as it’s such an interesting one! I am always on the lookout for quality posts and articles so I suppose I’m lucky to have found this! I hope you will be adding more in the future… score88

    Reply

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *