New immigrants' access to health care is often limited by lack of understanding of the health care system, and inability to communicate linguistically and culturally with providers.
Methods: We conducted focus groups among hospital consumers, and in the community, to identify barriers to accessing care. Based on results of the focus groups, and with consumers' participation, we developed a training program to help new immigrants and individuals with limited English proficiency navigate the system and negotiate for better care. Workshops take place in community centers, in church groups, and at the hospital. The project also uses mass outreach through ethnic community media. Evaluation includes documentation and observation of trainings, and waiting room interviews.
Results: Haitian consumers described many problems accessing and using services. The involvement of new Haitian immigrants in assessing the problem, designing and implementing the intervention was key to successfully attracting consumers. Haitian participants were recruited principally through personal outreach by a Haitian parent who uses the clinic. Parents reviewed the curriculum and materials in Creole prior to their use. The sessions were highly interactive. Participants were very satisfied, and reported discovering that they have rights, learning the concept of a primary care provider, when it was and was not appropriate to use the ER, and other important concepts. Hiring individuals from the community is key to bridging the gaps between large medical institutions and immigrant communities. The training curriculum developed as part of the language and cultural access project is replicable in other Haitian communities in Diaspora.
Learning Objectives: -Understand the barriers to Health Care to new Haitian immigrants. -
Keywords: Access and Services,
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.