Migration & Health

Question 1

Define migrant

Answer 1

Any person moving across an international border away from their habitual place of residence regardless of

• persons legal status
• whether movement is voluntary or involuntary
• cause for movement
• length of stay

Question 2

Define refugee

Answer 2

Any person outside their country of origin due to feared persecution, conflict, violence or disturbed public order.

Requiring international protection

Recognised refugee status

Question 3

Define asylum seeker

Answer 3

Any person seeking international protection whose refugee claim has not yet been decided/finalised by the country

Question 4

Define migrant worker

Answer 4

A person who is engaged (will be engaged/has been) in remunerated activities in a state that they are not a citizen

Question 5

NHS entitlements in England

Answer 5

Everyone is entitled to free primary care (regardless of immigration status)

Asylum seekers and refugees are entitled to free secondary care, others are charged

Question 6

Factors affecting migrant use of health systems

Answer 6

• leadership & governance: conflicting policy goals, migrants not included in legislation
• healthcare workforce: professional norms, discrimination and perceived ‘deserved ness’, cultural competence and staff training
• products & technology: availability for migrant patients
• info + research: availability of migrant health databases
• service delivery: language barriers, proximity and accessibility of services

Question 7

Common health issues amongst migrants

Answer 7

Perinatal health: maternal mortality, mental health, preterm birth, congenital abnormalities

Child health: disrupted immunisations, access to schools, impact on development

Adolescent health: social exclusion, bullying, stigma, MH

Mental health: depression + PTSD

Occupational: high rates of injury, exposure to hazards

High prevalence smoking and alcohol
Communicable + non-communicable disease

Question 8

Inclusive migrant healthcare in the UK

Answer 8

PHE produced a migrant health guide accessible to all includes:

• cultural/religious practice info
• guide regarding common communicable diseases
• advice on human trafficking
• safe services tool kit

Question 9

PHE checklist for assessing new patients from overseas

Answer 9

Social circumstances and reason for move
Risk of infectious disease
Dental health 
Diet and nutrition
Existing health conditions
Sexual health
Lifestyle (smoking etc)
Vision and hearing
Social support + integration