Posted on 46,979 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?

46,979 thoughts on “Access to Healthcare for Immigrants”

  1. Positive site, where did u come up with the information on this posting?I have read a few of the articles on your website now, and I really like your style. Thanks a million and please keep up the effective work. ig story viewer

    Reply

  2. You have a real ability for writing unique content. I like how you think and the way you represent your views in this article. I agree with your way of thinking. Thank you for sharing. slot online

    Reply

  3. This really is besides a good quality apply for which i literally highly valued grasping. It’s not at all on  a daily basis that we all put the opportunity to identify a thing. 바카라사이트

    Reply

  4. Informative Site… Hello guys here are some links that contains information that you may find useful yourselves. It’s Worth Checking out…. 배그슬롯

    Reply

  6. Photographs found on your web site regardless of whether generating fascination speedily a bit of volume submits. Pleasing way of long lasting potential, I shall be book-marking back then turn into your current floor conclude comes up ” way up “. 바카라사이트

    Reply

  7. I really loved reading your blog. It was very well authored and easy to undertand. Unlike additional blogs I have read which are really not tht good. I also found your posts very interesting. In fact after reading, I had to go show it to my friend and he ejoyed it as well! http://offercatcher.com/

    Reply

  8. Delay Spray is a topical product designed to help men last longer during sexual activity by reducing sensitivity in the genital area. It typically contains a mild anesthetic, such as lidocaine or benzocaine, which numbs the skin temporarily. Many men find it useful for preventing premature ejaculation, allowing for a more prolonged and satisfying experience. However, it’s important to use the product as directed to avoid overuse or discomfort. Consulting a healthcare professional before use is also a good idea, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions.

    Reply

  9. Here is very much want the most impressive sparkle terrific. Each one of these moderate areas are meant by means of selection of makeup foundation curiosity. I love individuals much. https://99OKK.PRO

    Reply

  10. Someone necessarily assist to make significantly articles I might state.
    This is the very first time I frequented your website page and
    so far? I surprised with the analysis you made to create this actual post extraordinary.
    Excellent process!

    https://w10.livehkg.net/

    Reply

  12. This valuable appears to be like utterly preferred. Every single one of small to medium sized details manufactured using lots of the past becoming familiar with. I need this approach a tremendous amount. https://RR88JIN.BABY

    Reply

  13. I need your position. It is really finer quality than see anyone explain in words from the basis in addition to legibility for this issue needed place are generally handily found. bongbet

    Reply

  14. Now i am attracted to people write-up. It can be best to locate persons verbalize within the cardiovascular system together with realizing in such a major topic is frequently purely observed. rhino gold gel avis

    Reply

  15. Great job here on _______ I read a lot of blog posts, but I never heard a topic like this. I Love this topic you made about the blogger’s bucket list. Very resourceful. SV66

    Reply

  16. Promptly your blog might it goes without saying typically possibly be visible related to each one of blog site people today, mainly because aware studies and as well lab tests. rhino gold gel avis

    Reply

  17. Hey there! I’m at work browsing your blog from my new iphone 4!
    Just wanted to say I love reading through your blog and look forward to all your posts!
    Carry on the outstanding work!

    Take a look at my web site – Get the facts

    Reply

  18. Almozinisaleh actively engages with both local and international photography communities. His participation in forums and events allows him to stay updated on the latest trends and techniques in the industry. This ongoing pursuit of knowledge helps him refine his skills and adapt to the evolving landscape of photography. He believes that continuous learning is essential for any artist who wishes to remain relevant and innovative. #Media_Services_Tabuk

    Reply

  19. Hey, this day is too much good for me, since this time I am reading this enormous informative article here at my home. Thanks a lot for massive hard work. situs slot gacor

    Reply

  21. Hi there, I found your website by the use of Google while searching for a comparable matter,
    your website came up, it looks great. I have bookmarked it in my google bookmarks.

    Hi there, just turned into aware of your blog through Google, and located that it’s
    truly informative. I am going to watch out for brussels.
    I will appreciate if you proceed this in future. Numerous folks
    will likely be benefited from your writing. Cheers!

    Feel free to surf to my web-site: KIDIRIVIXI

    Reply

  26. I think the admin of this web site is in fact working hard in support of his
    web page, as here every material is quality based material.

    Here is my web site bs2site.at

    Reply

  27. You really make it appear so easy together with your presentation but I in finding this matter to be actually something that I believe I’d never understand.
    It sort of feels too complicated and very wide for me.
    I’m having a look forward on your subsequent post, I’ll try to get the cling of it!

    my web page ทางเข้าufabet147

    Reply

  29. Get a more enjoyable gaming experience with our content! From game reviews, guides, to the latest news about the gaming industry waktogel

    Reply

  30. The when I read a blog, Hopefully which it doesnt disappoint me approximately that one. What i’m saying is, It was my choice to read, but I just thought youd have something intriguing to convey. All I hear is actually a few whining about something that you could fix should you werent too busy looking for attention. sv66c.in

    Reply

  31. Thanks for making the effort to go over this particular, Personally i think highly about this as well as adore understanding more on this topic. If at all possible, as you gain knowledge, would you mind updating your blog with more info? It is very helpful for me personally. sv66c.in

    Reply

  32. One other important aspect is that if you are an elderly person, travel insurance regarding pensioners is something you ought to really take into consideration. The old you are, greater at risk you are for making something terrible happen to you while overseas. If you are not covered by quite a few comprehensive insurance coverage, you could have some serious problems. Thanks for sharing your guidelines on this blog site. Nhà cái SV66

    Reply

  35. Bonus Cashback: Bonus yang diberikan kepada pemain untuk mengembalikan sebagian kerugian mereka An138

    Reply

  38. Pk88 Players can monitor game developments and lottery lottery results announcements via the slot site.

    Reply

  39. Anda dapat mempelajari informasi tentang permainan judi di internet atau dari panduan yang disediakan oleh platform slot online Emas88

    Reply

  46. Rr777 is an online lottery platform that has proven its reputation as one of the most trusted lottery bookies in Indonesia

    Reply

  49. Greetings! I’ve been following your site for a long time now and finally got the
    bravery to go ahead and give you a shout out from Houston Texas!
    Just wanted to say keep up the good work!

    Visit my web site; best vintage stores montreal

    Reply

Leave a Reply

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