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?

48,428 thoughts on “Access to Healthcare for Immigrants

  1. The look rightly terrific. All these mini advice happen to be created implementing massive amount past working experience. I’d like to see the whole works very much. 英文補習

    Reply

  2. Diamante Ratings is your ultimate destination for online gaming! 🎰💎 With a fantastic selection of games, big rewards, and an easy-to-use platform, it’s perfect for anyone looking to enjoy premium gaming. https://diamantedecassino.pro/ Check it out!

    Reply

  3. Snus UAE is the best nicotine pouches online shop in dubai, Abu Dhabi, UAE. We have all kind of Original Pouches Like Velo, Fox, ZYN, Pablo Etc. Mostly are from Sweden & Europe. We do quick delivery anywhere in UAE like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, Sharjah etc. Visit Here: Nicotine Pouches UAE

    Reply

  4. Ice777 Promo dan bonus-bonus seperti bonus cashback kekalahan, bonus rollingan, bonus referral mengajak teman, dll akan memanjakan para member setiap harinya

    Reply

  5. When we prioritize health, we’re investing in a future filled with vitality and resilience. Understanding its importance helps us develop habits that keep us strong, balanced, and ready to enjoy life fully. берберин

    Reply

  6. Lobi88 kami menawarkan berbagai bonus dan promosi yang menarik untuk memaksimalkan pengalaman bermain Anda

    Reply

  7. Online lottery games are games that are easily accessible, games that involve numbers are played by many people. With easy transactions that provide convenience for its players. This game has a different excitement from other games that are very unique. Therefore, if you want to know more information, please visit our website https://meme4dprime.com/

    Reply

  8. Thanks for finally talking about > Access to Healthcare for Immigrants – Exploring healthcare during a pandemic Captcha Solver
    Online Job

    Reply

  9. Atm189 memudahkan bermain game di ponsel! Satu kali login untuk mainkan semua game apa saja di dalamnya dan memberi Anda kesempatan meraih hadiah menarik di ATM189. ATM189 LOGIN

    Reply

  10. Hello there! I know this is kinda off topic but I was wondering if you knew
    where I could locate a captcha plugin for my
    comment form? I’m using the same blog platform as yours and I’m having difficulty finding one?
    Thanks a lot!

    Also visit my web-site – gangbang indo

    Reply

  11. Choosing Top Line Roofing Contractors was a great decision. Their team in Portland was professional, and the workmanship was exceptional. Highly recommend them for any roofing needs! Portland or roofers

    Reply

  12. kattunge i hemmet… […]s Not every blog has got the facts right but this one seems to have managed t qq[…]… wps官网

    Reply

  13. The luxury proposed might be incomparable; citizens are never fail to looking for bags is a Native goals. The idea numerous insert goals uniquely to push diversity with visibility during the travel and leisure arena. Hotels Discounts Car reviews

    Reply

  14. Excellent things from you, man. Ive examine your things before and youre just too awesome. I love what youve received here, love what youre stating and the way you say it. You make it entertaining and you still manage to hold it intelligent. I cant wait to read more from you. This really is really a wonderful blog. wps官网

    Reply

  15. I am not sure where you’re getting your info, but great topic. I needs to spend some time learning much more or understanding more. Thanks for fantastic information I was looking for this info for my mission. 88jl login

    Reply

  16. Hyundai Việt Hàn là đại lý Hyundai ủy quyền chính thức của Hyundai TC MOTOR. Được xây dựng theo tiêu chuẩn 3S của Hyundai toàn cầu, Hyundai Việt Hàn cam kết mang đến cho khách hàng những sản phẩm và dịch vụ tốt nhất, bao gồm bán hàng, bảo hành và cung cấp phụ tùng chính hãng. Với phương châm “Cùng khách hàng vươn tới thành công”, chúng tôi không ngừng nỗ lực lắng nghe và thấu hiểu nhu cầu của khách hàng, đem đến những dòng xe Hyundai hiện đại và phù hợp nhất, như Hyundai Santafe, Hyundai Tucson, Creta, Custin, Accent, Grand i10…

    Reply

  17. If you’re considering alternative medicine, getting a medical marijuana card might be worth looking into. It allows legal access to treatments that can help manage chronic pain, anxiety, and other conditions. Consult with a healthcare provider to see if it’s a good fit. Get a Medical Marijuana Card

    Reply

  18. If you are going for most excellent contents like myself, simply pay a visit this site
    daily for the reason that it gives feature contents, thanks

    Also visit my webpage: Gebrauchte CNC-Maschinen

    Reply

  19. This particular papers fabulous, and My spouse and i enjoy each of the perform that you have placed into this. I’m sure that you will be making a really useful place. I has been additionally pleased. Good perform! ig story viewer

    Reply

  20. Access to Healthcare for Immigrants emphasizes the importance of inclusivity in essential services, much like the jacket blade runner 2049 stands as a symbol of resilience and adaptability. Just as the iconic jacket merges diverse styles, inclusive healthcare should blend resources and understanding to ensure everyone, including immigrants, has access to care.

    Reply

  21. Lindsay Lohan’s Court Appearance – This Is Sad Excellent goods from you, man. I’ve understand your stuff previous to and you are just too magnificent. I really like what you’ve acquired here, certainly like what you are stating and the way in which you say it. You make it entertaining and you still take care of to keep it wise. I cant wait to read far more Lindsay Lohan’s Court Appearance – This Is Sad again from you. Thanks For Share . 500jl login

    Reply

  22. Hi there! Do you use Twitter? I’d like to follow you if that would be ok. I’m undoubtedly enjoying your blog and look forward to new posts. id888 login

    Reply

  23. I see your point, and I totally appreciate your article. For what its worth I will tell all my friends about it, quite resourceful. Later. iq777 login

    Reply

  24. I’m so happy to read this. This is the kind of manual that needs to be given and not the accidental misinformation that’s at the other blogs. Appreciate your sharing this best doc. rh365 login

    Reply

  25. An impressive share, I just given this onto a colleague who was doing a little evaluation on this. And he in reality bought me breakfast as a result of I found it for him.. smile. So let me reword that: Thnx for the treat! But yeah Thnkx for spending the time to discuss this, I really feel strongly about it and love studying extra on this topic. If potential, as you develop into expertise, would you mind updating your weblog with extra particulars? It’s extremely useful for me. Huge thumb up for this weblog submit! th777 login

    Reply

Leave a Reply

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