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?

51,996 thoughts on “Access to Healthcare for Immigrants

  1. I’m not sure the place you’re getting your information, but great topic.
    I must spend some time finding out much more
    or working out more. Thanks for great information I was on the
    lookout for this info for my mission.

    Look at my website: blog link

    Reply

  2. Do you have a spam problem on this site; I also am a blogger, and I was wanting to
    know your situation; we have created some nice procedures and
    we are looking to trade solutions with other folks, be sure to
    shoot me an email if interested.

    Feel free to visit my web site: icecric

    Reply

  3. Yes, I am entirely agreed with this article, and I just want say that this article is very helpful and enlightening. I also have some precious piece of concerned info !!!!!!Thanks. Booster Peak

    Reply

  4. RTS TV APK is a versatile streaming application designed for Android users, offering access to a wide range of live TV channels, movies, and sports events. With its user-friendly interface, the app provides seamless entertainment on the go. From local content to international programming, RTS TV APK ensures high-quality streaming for free. Whether you’re a fan of live cricket, movies, or news channels, this app covers all your viewing needs. Downloading Rts Tv Apk allows you to enjoy your favorite content anytime, anywhere, without subscription hassles. Experience entertainment redefined with this all-in-one streaming solution.

    Reply

  5. That’s why it is best that you relevant researching previously penning. You’re able to construct more desirable put up this way. Tonic Greens

    Reply

  6. i read a lot of stuff and i found that the way of writing to clearifing that exactly want to say was very good so i am impressed and ilike to come again in future.. prediksi pasaran sgp

    Reply

  7. I enjoyed reading your post! One thing I’d love to say is that this information has changed my views. It would be great if you could expand on that in a future post! I would like to have your lookout on my and my team’s work on Citrine Earrings as we are seekers of your suggestion. Please provide some information you have on this topic, and we will be waiting for your feedback and new blogs for us.

    Reply

  8. 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. prediksi sgp

    Reply

  9. We prefer your present post. It may be excellent to see anybody clarify within phrases with the cardio together with lucidity with this crucial concern may be rapidly observed. Tonic Greens

    Reply

  10. Explore the edgy and bold Hellstar collectionHellstar for unique streetwear designs that make a statement wherever you go!

    Reply

  11. Instantaneously the web page may irrefutably find popular very involving putting up shoppers, for the careful content pages or perhaps important testimonials. Tonic Greens

    Reply

  12. This premium collab features iconic Chrome Chrome Heart Jacket Hearts designs on our signature, ultra-comfortable hoodie. Own a piece of luxury that speaks volumes – the Chrome Hearts Hoodie.

    Reply

  13. I just found this blog and have high hopes for it to continue. Keep up the great work, its hard to find good ones. I have added to my favorites. Thank You. alexistogel

    Reply

  14. Your inner rockstar with Essentials Essentials Tracksuit clothing brand that ignites a rebellion of individuality. Essentials: Audacious designs for those who dare to be different.

    Reply

  15. Bape often collaborates with other high-profile brands,Bape Sweatshirt such as Nike, Supreme, and Medicom Toy, to create exclusive and highly sought-after collections.

    Reply

  16. Car beds with mattresses offer a complete,Car Beds fun bedroom setup, combining stylish car designs with cozy, ready-to-use comfort.

    Reply

  17. Quality articles or reviews is the crucial to invite
    the people to pay a visit the website, that’s what this web page is providing.

    Here is my site – 카지노사이트

    Reply

  18. You have performed a great job on this article.It’s very precise and highly qualitative. You have even managed to make it readable and easy to read. You have some real writing talent. Thank you so much. 먹튀사이트

    Reply

  19. hello!,I like your writing so much! proportion we be in contact extra approximately your
    post on AOL? I require a specialist on this area
    to solve my problem. May be that is you! Having a look ahead to peer you.

    My website – agodaslot

    Reply

  20. That’s why it is best that you relevant researching previously penning. You’re able to construct more desirable put up this way. bokep terbaru

    Reply

  21. Crucial online marketing you just it applies seek before submission. It will probably be simple and easy to jot down advanced write-up which. kontol

    Reply

  22. Admiring the time and energy you put into your site and in depth information you present.

    It’s good to come across a blog every once in a while that
    isn’t the same unwanted rehashed information. Wonderful
    read! I’ve saved your site and I’m adding your RSS feeds to my Google account.

    my web-site – Web Page

    Reply

Leave a Reply

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