Posted on 39,365 Comments on Access to Healthcare for Immigrants

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?

39,365 thoughts on “Access to Healthcare for Immigrants”

  1. Hi there, i read your blog occasionally and i own a similar one and i was just curious if you get a lot of spam feedback? If so how do you stop it, any plugin or anything you can suggest? I get so much lately it’s driving me crazy so any support is very much appreciated. link alternatif website bandarqq

    Reply

  2. Thanks for taking the time to talk about this, I feel fervently about this and I take pleasure in learning about this topic. Please, as you gain information, please update this blog with more information. I have found it very useful. There have to be charging stations everywhere. daftar mataqq pkv games

    Reply

  3. This is the correct weblog for everyone who is would like to learn about this topic. You are aware of much its almost challenging to argue along with you (not that I personally would want…HaHa). You certainly put a different spin on a topic thats been revealed for several years. Fantastic stuff, just great! daftar mataqq pkv games

    Reply

  4. Thank you for your site post. Velupe and I happen to be saving for just a new book on this subject and your article has made us all to save money. Your opinions really responded all our issues. In fact, above what we had thought of ahead of the time we came across your great blog. I no longer nurture doubts including a troubled mind because you totally attended to each of our needs here. Thanks daftar mataqq pkv games

    Reply

  6. Most of the time I don’t make comments on websites, but I’d like to say that this article really forced me to do so. Really nice post! Custom neon signs

    Reply

  10. Hanya membutuhkan waktu kurang dari 1 menit untuk deposit dan penarikan Anda selesai proses, agb88

    Reply

  25. Habanero merupakan salah satu penyedia Taruhan Slot Online yang menjadi populer hingga saat ini, mabos

    Reply

  42. Looking for an unforgettable gaming experience? Welcome to novibetcasino With a vast selection of exciting games, including slots, table games, and live dealer options, there’s something for everyone. Our user-friendly platform and top-notch security ensure you have a fantastic and safe time.

    Reply

  45. 북토끼 주소
    offers a vast selection of web novels catering to diverse tastes and interests. It’s a fantastic platform for avid readers.

    Reply

  46. I’ve been trying to find a few first rate stuff at the concern and haven’t had any good fortune up till this point, You simply were given a new biggest fan!.. jeeter juice

    Reply

  47. 블랙툰
    offers a diverse range of webtoons to cater to every taste and preference, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

    Reply

  49. Hello There. I found your blog using msn. This is an extremely well written article. I will be sure to bookmark it and return to read more of your useful information. Thanks for the post. I’ll certainly comeback. Mpo999 slot

    Reply

  50. Hello There. I found your blog using msn. This is an extremely well written article. I will be sure to bookmark it and return to read more of your useful information. Thanks for the post. I’ll certainly comeback. HOKI138

    Reply

Leave a Reply

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