5046.0: Wednesday, October 24, 2001 - Board 5

Abstract #28500

Addressing the Health Needs of California's Refugee Population

Michael Ayala, MS, California Department of Health Services, Tuberculosis Control Branch, Refugee Health Section, California Department of Health Services, Refugee Health Section, 601 North 7th Street, MS 508, P.O. Box 942732, MS 508, Sacramento, CA 94234-7320, (916)324-9949, mayala@dhs.ca.gov

Over 11,000 refugee from various countries arrived in California during fiscal year 1999/00. California has historically been and continues to be the state of choice for incoming refugees. Over 26% of all refugees entering the United Sates during this period settled in California, followed by New York 14% and Florida 8%.

Unlike the general population of California, the health status of arriving refugees showed significant need for basic health conditions. During FY99/00 nearly half of the refugees were identified as having one or more conditions that required treatment. Over 70% of those tested were susceptible to Hepatitis B, over 63% of children tested required additional immunizations, 58% had dental problems, 31% tested positive for parasites and 9% tested positive for anemia. These conditions prompted participating programs to take action.

Since October 1, 2000, the beginning of the federal fiscal year, California introduced a comprehensive health assessment to address the needs of refugee populations. This revised health assessment includes collection of basic demographic data, overseas medical records, immunizations, medical history, mental health, domestic violence, a complete medical examination, and other conditions of risk. Lastly, a built in referral system assists the refugee to understand and attend medical referrals. Since the introduction of the revised health assessment, California has begun collecting data not previously available. This data will help improve the services provided to refugees, to improve their health status and ultimately assist them towards self-sufficiency.

See www.dhs.ca.gov/ps/dcdc/refugeehealth

Learning Objectives: Attendees will learn about California's refugee population, navigating the health system, special health conditions and comprehensive health assessment.

Keywords: Access to Health Care, Emerging Health Issues

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
Disclosure not received
Relationship: Not Received.

The 129th Annual Meeting of APHA