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?

27,515 thoughts on “Access to Healthcare for Immigrants

  1. I’m excited to uncover this page. I need to to thank you for ones time for this particularly fantastic read !! I definitely really liked every part of it and i also have you saved to fav to look at new information in your site.laptop repair

    Reply

  2. I’m curious to find out what blog system you happen to be utilizing? I’m having some small security issues with my latest site and I would like to find something more safe. Do you have any recommendations? beautiful kitchen ware

    Reply

  3. hi, I’ve been havin a tough time trying to rank up for the words “victorias secret coupon codes”… Please approve my comment!! beautiful kitchen

    Reply

  4. I admire this article for the well-researched content and excellent wording. I got so involved in this material that I couldn’t stop reading. I am impressed with your work and skill. Thank you so much. agen togel

    Reply

  5. Are you looking for top-quality window replacement mckinney tx? Look no further than Wallaby Windows. Our team of experts is dedicated to providing exceptional service and high-quality products to enhance the beauty and energy efficiency of your home.

    Reply

  6. Hiya, I’m really glad I’ve found this info. Today bloggers publish just about gossips and internet and this is actually frustrating. A good website with exciting content, that’s what I need. Thank you for keeping this web site, I’ll be visiting it. Do you do newsletters? Can not find it. baby

    Reply

  7. i will set up my new concept from this submit. It gives extensive information. thanks for this precious records for all,.. Market Slot

    Reply

  8. I haven’t any phrase to realize this publish…..truly i am inspired from this put up….the person that create this publish it was a terrific human..thank you for shared this with us. Kampus Unggul

    Reply

  9. Comfortabl y, the post is really the freshest on that deserving topic. I harmonise with your conclusions and definitely will thirstily look forward to your next updates. Just saying thanks definitely will not simply just be acceptable, for the extraordinary clarity in your writing. I can directly grab your rss feed to stay informed of any kind of updates. Gratifying work and much success in your business dealings! push disposable

    Reply

  10. This is my first time i visit here and I found so many interesting stuff in your blog especially it’s discussion, thank you. 블루티비

    Reply

  11. This is such a great resource that you are providing and you give it away for free. I love seeing blog that understand the value of providing a quality resource for free. kaisar19

    Reply

  12. I am impressed. I don’t think Ive met anyone who knows as much about this subject as you do. You are truly well informed and very intelligent. You wrote something that people could understand and made the subject intriguing for everyone. Really, great blog you have got here. istana8899 daftar

    Reply

  13. Our Goa Escort girls will not only make you happy but also give you love and peace throughout the night. As one of the best escort agencies in Goa, we have a wide range of beautiful girls who will always delight you with their passion and seduction. In Goa, you can enjoy top-notch escort services to fulfill your heart’s wildest sexual desires.

    Reply

  14. Our Goa Escort girls will not only make you happy but also give you love and peace throughout the night. As one of the best escort agencies in Goa, we have a wide range of beautiful girls who will always delight you with their passion and seduction. In Goa, you can enjoy top-notch escort services to fulfill your heart’s wildest sexual desires.https://ishaescorts.in/

    Reply

  15. Votre dictionnaire de rimes en ligne. Explorez votre style, saisissez un mot et découvrez instantanément une liste de mots qui riment avec lui. rimes

    Reply

  16. I like your writing so much! share we keep up a correspondence extra approximately your post on AOL? I require a specialist on this space to solve my problem. May be that is you! Looking ahead to peer you. acim podcast

    Reply

  17. Frsurgery offers a comprehensive resource for those seeking information and guidance regarding facial reconstructive surgery.

    Reply

  18. exciting submit. i have Been questioning about this problem, so thank you for posting. pretty cool post.It ‘s actually very fine and useful put up.thanks 네오슬롯카지노

    Reply

  19. Explore the elegance of fine living at nhchristiesre. Discover an exquisite array of luxury properties tailored to elevate your lifestyle.

    Reply

  20. exciting submit. i have Been questioning about this problem, so thank you for posting. pretty cool post.It ‘s actually very fine and useful put up.thanks bonus new member

    Reply

  21. I appreciate the entirety you have got added to my knowledge base.Admiring the effort and time you placed into your blog and special facts you offer.thanks. bonus new member

    Reply

  22. Nice post. I find out something very complicated on various blogs everyday. Most commonly it is stimulating you just read content using their company writers and rehearse something from their website. I’d choose to use some with the content on my small weblog no matter whether you do not mind. Natually I’ll give you a link on the internet blog. Many thanks sharing. IPTV Provider UK

    Reply

  23. I appreciate the entirety you have got added to my knowledge base.Admiring the effort and time you placed into your blog and special facts you offer.thanks. 99math.join

    Reply

  24. An interesting discussion might be priced at comment. I do think that you simply write read more about this topic, it will not certainly be a taboo subject but typically persons are insufficient to dicuss on such topics. To another. Cheers 3Dデータ作成

    Reply

  25. Wow, fantastic blog layout! How long have you been blogging for? you made blogging look easy. The overall look of your site is great, as well as the content! link miototo

    Reply

  26. Nikmati pengalaman bermain terbaik dengan platform terpercaya dan aman. Daftar sekarang dan rasakan sensasi bermain game online dengan QQDEWA. qqdewa

    Reply

  27. balap4d bukan sekadar situs slot biasa. Di sini, setiap putaran memberikan kesempatan besar untuk memenangkan hadiah yang menggiurkan. Dengan berbagai jenis permainan slot yang tersedia, pemain selalu menemukan sesuatu yang baru dan menarik.

    Reply

  28. Jika Anda mencari situs slot dengan tingkat kemenangan tinggi, balap4d adalah jawabannya. Kombinasi dari grafis berkualitas tinggi, tema yang menarik, dan peluang menang yang besar menjadikannya favorit di kalangan pemain

    Reply

  29. Touchstone allows international students to pursue their academic goals in one of the most picturesque and welcoming countries in the world. With a focus on quality education and a diverse range of courses, New Zealand offers a unique learning experience for students from around the globe. The study visa enables students to enroll at Touchstone, gain valuable skills, and immerse themselves in the vibrant culture of New Zealand. By obtaining a New Zealand Study Visa, students can explore new opportunities, expand their horizons, and create unforgettable memories in this beautiful island nation.

    Reply

  30. If you are looking for more information about flat rate locksmith Las Vegas check that right away. SEO PACKAGE

    Reply

  31. Welcome to our world of thrilling spins and endless excitement! Dive into the ultimate online slot experience with our cutting-edge platform. Our site Slot161

    Reply

  32. IOSBET > Situs Server Luar yang Memberikan Peluang Kemenangan Tinggi Kepada Pemainnya dan Mudah Mendapatkan Scatter Dengan Cepat. daftar iosbet

    Reply

  33. cerdas4d slot adalah situs slot gacor terbaik yang pernah saya coba. Grafik yang memukau dan efek suara yang realistis membuat saya merasa seperti berada di kasino sungguhan. Plus, dukungan pelanggan yang responsif membuat pengalaman bermain menjadi lebih nyaman

    Reply

  34. I admit, I have not been on this web page in a long time… however it was another joy to see It is such an important topic and ignored by so many, even professionals. I thank you to help making people more aware of possible issues. toto wayang

    Reply

  35. Nice post! This is a very nice blog that I will definitively come back to more times this year! Thanks for informative post. tvtogel

    Reply

  36. 귀하의 블로그가 너무 놀랍습니다. 나는 내가보고있는 것을 쉽게 발견했다. 또한 콘텐츠 품질이 굉장합니다. 넛지 주셔서 감사합니다! 파워볼게임

    Reply

  37. Awesome article, it was exceptionally helpful! I simply began in this and I’m becoming more acquainted with it better! Cheers, keep doing awesome! alexistogel

    Reply

  38. Lebih dari 10 rb++ pemain harian aktif setiap hari, 889 rb++ member telah bergabung, Istana8899 indonesia siap melayani anda 24/7 setiap hari tanpa henti. istana8899 daftar

    Reply

  39. I found that site very usefull and this survey is very cirious, I ‘ ve never seen a blog that demand a survey for this actions, very curious… indie alternative

    Reply

  40. Are you an Indian business owner in search of the perfect e-commerce platform? Look no further! In this article, we will explore the top Shopify alternative in India. From user-friendly interfaces to robust features, these platforms offer a wide range of options to help you create your dream online store.
    https://www.commrz.com/website/commrz-vs-shopify

    Reply

Leave a Reply

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