Posted on 46,796 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?

46,796 thoughts on “Access to Healthcare for Immigrants”

  1. Howdy Reddit. I’m looking for some good sports betting sites and apps that I can use in Texas. I know the major ones in Las Vegas aren’t available here, but I’ve been able to use some that are located in other countries. Texas Sports Betting App

    Reply

  2. Priceded ช้อปปิ้งออนไลน์ครบวงจร พบกับสินค้าคุณภาพในราคาสุดคุ้ม พร้อมดีลพิเศษ โปรโมชั่นจัดเต็ม และรหัสส่วนลดมากมายที่คุณไม่ควรพลาด ช้อปง่าย priceded.com

    Reply

  5. I got this web site from my buddy who informed me on the topic
    of this web site and now this time I am visiting this website and reading very informative articles
    at this place.

    my page – item667437408

    Reply

  7. Your blog provided us with valuable information to work with. Each & every tips of your post are awesome. Thanks a lot for sharing. Keep blogging, HANTAM88

    Reply

  8. Myślę, że jest to dla mnie jedna z najważniejszych informacji. I cieszę się czytając twój artykuł. Ale chcę zwrócić uwagę na kilka ogólnych rzeczy, styl strony jest doskonały,

    https://www.casinositezone.com
    artykuły są naprawdę doskonałe: D. Dobra robota, na zdrowie

    Reply

  9. Experience the finest Escort Services in Gurgaon with our professional and discreet companionship. Our elite escorts are well-versed in providing exceptional company, whether for social events or private moments. We ensure a personalized and unforgettable experience, catering to your every need with elegance and sophistication. Enjoy a high-class service that guarantees satisfaction and memorable encounters in Gurgaon.

    Reply

  12. mph club® offers a wide variety of exotic car rentals in Miami ready to be driven around the beautiful sea side. Other services that we offaer include chauffeur service for major events…
    shop women’s clothing

    Reply

  15. Great job for publishing such a beneficial web site. Your web log isn’t only useful but it is additionally really creative too. There tend to be not many people who can certainly write not so simple posts that artistically. Continue the nice writing situs togel

    Reply

  17. LSD For Sale. LSD is known for its ability to enhance creativity, deepen emotional awareness, and provide users with profound spiritual lsd paper sheet

    Reply

  18. аlways i used to rｅad smaller articles ᧐r reviews whіch alѕo clear their motive,
    and thɑt is аls happening with thnis paragraph ᴡhich I amm reading һere.

    my website: july weather lаs vegas (https://nahimic.click/)

    Reply

  19. We need many stories, Like genuinely appreciated, You want addiitional data over it, mainly because it can be reasonably exceptional., Take care exclusively for declaring. POTENT STREAM

    Reply

  20. A debt of gratitude is in order for sharing the information, keep doing awesome… I truly delighted in investigating your site. great asset… Chapes.be

    Reply

  21. You actually make it look so easy with your performance but I find this matter to be actually something which I think I would never comprehend. It seems too complicated and extremely broad for me. I’m looking forward for your next post, I’ll try to get the hang of it! Seozoekmachineoptimalisatie.be

    Reply

  25. Very nice blog and articles. I am realy very happy to visit your blog. Now I am found which I actually want. I check your blog everyday and try to learn something from your blog. Thank you and waiting for your new post. Warmtepompen-centrale.be

    Reply

  27. I was surfing net and fortunately came across this site and found very interesting stuff here. Its really fun to read. I enjoyed a lot. Thanks for sharing this wonderful information. Airco-airconditioning.be

    Reply

  30. This is a fabulous post I seen because of offer it. It is really what I expected to see trust in future you will continue in sharing such a mind boggling post Seowebdesign.be

    Reply

  33. This is also a very good post which I really enjoyed reading. It is not every day that I have the possibility to see something like this.. Seoleadgeneration.be

    Reply

  34. This is a fabulous post I seen because of offer it. It is really what I expected to see trust in future you will continue in sharing such a mind boggling post A-aircool.be

    Reply

  40. Just pure brilliance from you here. I have never expected something less than this from you and you have not disappointed me at all. I suppose you will keep the quality work going on. Zwembad-aanleggen-tuin.nl

    Reply

  41. Experience luxury and sophistication with our premium Escort Service in Connaught Place. Our professional escorts are dedicated to providing exceptional companionship and unforgettable moments. Whether for social events or private gatherings, our discreet and elegant services ensure complete satisfaction. Indulge in the ultimate experience with the finest escorts in Connaught Place, catering to your every need and desire.

    Reply

  42. I am constantly surprised by the amount of information accessible on this subject. What you presented was well researched and well written to get your stand on this over to all your readers. Thanks a lot my dear. https://jun88.gen.in/

    Reply

  44. Someone Sometimes with visits your blog regularly and recommended it in my experience to read as well. The way of writing is excellent and also the content is top-notch. Thanks for that insight you provide the readers! apartamenty na sprzedaż Zakopane

    Reply

  46. Access to healthcare for immigrants is vital in promoting a healthy and inclusive society. Much like how a sturdy biker jacket men offers protection on the road, accessible healthcare shields individuals from health risks, ensuring safety and resilience for everyone. Quality healthcare coverage safeguards immigrants, reinforcing community well-being.

    Reply

  47. That’s give attention to you need to certain research prior to authoring. Will probably be achievable to be able to a lot more attractive post this way. xnxx

    Reply

  49. Experience unparalleled elegance and discretion with Chanakyapuri escorts. Our exclusive services are designed for discerning clients seeking companionship and sophistication. Located in one of Delhi’s most prestigious areas, our escorts offer charm, intelligence, and beauty, ensuring an unforgettable experience. Trust in our professionalism and dedication to provide a personalized and luxurious service tailored to meet your highest expectations.

    Reply

Leave a Reply

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