Refugee health and rehabilitation: Challenges and response

Abstract

Background:The current global refugee crisis poses major challenges in providing effective healthcare to refugees, particularly for non-communicable diseases management and disability. This article provides an overview of refugee health and potential challenges from the rehabilitation perspective. Methods: A literature search (both academic and grey literature) was conducted using medical and health science electronic databases and internet search engines (2001-2016). Both authors independently selected studies. Due to heterogeneity amongst identified articles, a narrative analysis was performed for best-evidence synthesis to outline the current health and rehabilitation status of refugees and existing gaps in care. Results: Data suggest that infectious diseases requiring treatment in refugees are a minority; whilst non-communicable diseases, musculoskeletal conditions are prevalent. Many refugees arrive with complex health needs. One in 6 refugees have a physical health problem severely affecting their lives and twothirds experience mental health problems, signifying the important role of rehabilitation. Refugees face continued disadvantage, poverty and dependence due to lack of cohesive support in their new country, which are determinants of both poor physical and mental health. This is compounded by language barriers, impoverishment, and lack of familiarity with the local environment and healthcare system. In Australia, there are concerns about sexual and gender-based violence in off-shore detention camps. Targeted physical and cognitive rehabilitative strategies have much to offer these vulnerable people to allow for improved activity and participation. Conclusion: Strong leadership and effective action from national and international bodies is urgently needed to develop comprehensive rehabilitation-inclusive medical care for refugees.

Understanding Refugees' Health

“…When refugees reach European countries, they usually undergo a general health care screen. 32 Thereafter, they are often sent from one asylum center to another while waiting for a decision on their application for asylum. In health care screens at these facilities, a significant percentage of refugees have important somatic and psychiatric health problems.…”

“…Having a health system, especially the concept of a general practitioner (GP) for health care concerns, is new for most asylum seekers. 55 Although asylum seekers may have access to health care with little or no fee 32,56,103,104 and may consult with a general practitioner cost free, 105 the services and support offered for treatment differs greatly between nations. Physicians should be aware of these differences and must be informed of possibilities for covering costs, if they are to further improve quality of care and reduce treatment barriers for asylum seekers.…”

Common Diagnoses among Refugee Populations: Linked Results with Statewide Hospital Discharge Database

“…Refugees resettled in the U.S. arrive from different countries and cultures, and they often require complex health care needs upon arrival. As vulnerable populations, even after resettlement, many refugees face continued struggles in poverty, discrimination, language barriers, and unfamiliarity with the local environment and health care systems [35]. Outreach programs that prioritize all refugees are needed.…”

Collaborative effort to increase the physiotherapist’s competency in rehabilitation of torture survivors

“…rehabilitation). Therefore, a key role of physiotherapists should be to assist refugees to understand the organisation of the health care system, the nature of therapies available and how resources are funded (Brzoska & Razum, 2017;Khan & Amatya, 2017;Lindsay et al, 2012;Razavi et al, 2011).…”