Planning a curriculum in Hispanic Migration Studies: Lessons learned in Xalapa, Mexico

Objective: Obtain the perspective of Mexican health and community personnel on key health issues to be addressed in an undergraduate curriculum for US students.

Data Source: Data collection occurred during a week-long exploratory planning trip to the state capital of Veracruz, Mexico (Xalapa) during July 2007. Direct observation, key informant interviews, and site visits to University of Veracruz “Casas de la Universidad” were used to collect data about Mexican migration. Rural health care providers, public health researchers, and rural community members around Xalapa were interviewed. Qualitative data methods were used to explore emerging themes.

Results: Several themes were deemed vital to helping US students understand the transnational implications of Mexican migration, especially from rural Mexico. An emphasis on Mexican culture, health status, economic issues, and Mexican immigration were considered as essential to the course. The Mexican economy and employment opportunities in the US were mentioned consistently across various socioeconomic levels. Several concerns were identified including the migratory patterns that increase the difficulty of adequate infectious disease surveillance and treatment which can cause gaps in care.

Conclusion: The course will allow US students to understand the context of Mexican migration, to improve care to migrants living in the United States. The visit to rural departure areas in Veracruz, Mexico allowed the team to explore the transnational implications of Mexican migration. Increased knowledge about the Mexican migration experience will assist rural health professionals in the United States, especially in areas with emergent Mexican populations, such as South Carolina.