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?

51,285 thoughts on “Access to Healthcare for Immigrants

  1. href=”https://303bets.net/”>303bet Fill in the form with your personal data, such as name, email and telephone number

    Reply

  2. Security: Ensures safety through partnerships with official regulatory bodies, maintaining fair play​.Promotions: Regular promotions like cashback and free bets to enhance user engagement​. miso88

    Reply

  3. It is appropriate time to make some plans for the future and it’s time to be happy. I have read this post and if I could I desire to suggest you few interesting things or advice. Maybe you could write next articles referring to this article. I desire to read more things about it! Best Crypto Exchange 2024

    Reply

  4. Pretty nice post. I just stumbled upon your weblog and wanted to say that I have really enjoyed browsing your blog posts. After all I’ll be subscribing to your feed and I hope you write again soon! e2bet

    Reply

  5. The next occasion I read a weblog, I really hope which it doesnt disappoint me around that one. I am talking about, I know it was my solution to read, but I really thought youd have some thing intriguing to express. All I hear is actually a bunch of whining about something that you could fix when you werent too busy in search of attention. https://vn88so.org/

    Reply

  6. Ticket Options: Users can buy single tickets or join syndicates to increase their chances of winning. loto188

    Reply

  7. Texas Mor lottery is a variant of the lottery game that has attracted the attention of many players around the world. This game combines elements of luck and strategy, where players have to guess the numbers that will come out in the lottery. If you are curious about the game, just check the website.https://cherryeighteen.com/

    Reply

  8. 대전광역시에서의 오피 서비스는 Rose-op에서 찾으세요. 저희는 정확한 컨디션과 저렴한 가격으로 24시간 연중무휴 서비스를 제공하며, 고객님의 만족을 보장합니다. Rose-op을 통해 편안하고 만족스러운 서비스를 경험해 보세요. 대전오피

    Reply

  9. Hello, you used to write fantastic, but the last few posts have been kinda boring… I miss your super writings. Past several posts are just a little bit out of track! come on!”To be content with what one has is the greatest and truest of riches.” by Cicero. Download GB WhatsApp

    Reply

  10. enigma下载Thank you for sharing this information. I really enjoyed your blog post. You have indeed shared an informative and interesting blog post with people.

    Reply

  11. Thank you for sharing this information. I really enjoyed your blog post. You have indeed shared an informative and interesting blog post with people.
    enigma官网

    Reply

  12. It’s important to be mindful that certain services, like those related to “call girls” in Abu Dhabi, may be illegal and carry significant cultural, social, and legal consequences. Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi Escorts as part of the UAE, upholds strict laws that prohibit activities involving solicitation or adult services. Visitors and residents are encouraged to respect the local customs, laws, and cultural values of this vibrant and rapidly growing city, known for its stunning architecture, luxury lifestyle, and rich heritage.

    Reply

  13. It’s important to be mindful that certain services, like those related to “call girls” in Abu Dhabi, may be illegal and carry significant cultural, social, and legal consequences. Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi Escorts as part of the UAE, upholds strict laws that prohibit activities involving solicitation or adult services. Visitors and residents are encouraged to respect the local customs, laws, and cultural values of this vibrant and rapidly growing city, known for its stunning architecture, luxury lifestyle, and rich heritage.

    Reply

  14. I just want to let you know that I just check out your site and I find it very interesting and informative. – 24kbet

    Reply

  15. Explore the world of Ghost Energy Drink in our latest blog post, where we dive into its vibrant history, unique flavors, and energizing ingredients. Discover how this popular drink aims to refresh and revitalize, offering a standout option in the crowded energy beverage market.
    In contrast, Adolf Hitler’s birthday on April 20th prompts reflection on the horrors of World War II and the importance of historical memory. Our post examines how different countries remember this day, the challenges of commemoration, and the crucial role of education and media in countering extremism and preserving the lessons of the past.
    Adolf Hitler’s Birthday: A Reflection on History and Remembrance!

    Reply

  16. 수원의 Rose-op를 찾아주셔서 감사합니다. 저희는 수원에서 오랜 시간 동안 수원오피를 제공해온 1등 업체입니다. 고객님들께 365일 24시간 전화로 수원OP 서비스를 제공하며, 다른 지역에 거주하셔도 수원역OP를 편안하게 이용하실 수 있습니다. 궁금한 사항은 고객센터를 통해 언제든지 문의해 주세요. 수원오피

    Reply

  17. Our presence here wants to offer information about interesting gameplay by presenting exciting sensations. Therefore, just join the website betawislot

    Reply

  18. This is exactly evenly a good material that i extremely extremely enjoyed reading viewing. It’s not regularly which i maintain opportunity to run a difficulty. Lottery Defeated

    Reply

  19. Blogs that are frequently updated with new content regularly show the dedication of their owners, and this is often appreciated by loyal readers. And we have a very interesting lottery site and if you read it, you must be interested in our site because our site discusses accurate lottery numbers and easy jackpots in playing lottery, if you want to read it, you just click on our website here and you just read https://viajescaribenita.co/

    Reply

  20. Lottery Statistics: Players can access detailed statistics and historical data about various lotteries. loto188

    Reply

  21. Luck8 Brand Identity: A brand or concept called Luck8 may represent products or services that promote good fortune, success, and positivity. luck8

    Reply

Leave a Reply

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