Oral

Migration has become one of the defining issues of the twenty-first century. Migration is not new, but more people are now moving than ever before and they are moving faster and further. This session will consider the general issues related to migration and health, the human rights implications and the need for healthcare systems to understand better the emerging equation of health and migration. The particular challenge to public health will be raised, including an assessment of the risk of spread of communicable diseases and the limitations of screening as the main public health approach. Communities also worry about the impact of migration on social problems such as crime, and one presentation will look at the myth of migrant criminality in California. The session will close with an outline of the approach to the management of health issues in migration in one country of Europe and will call for the greater recognition that only a global and inclusive approach, addressing the health needs of both the host and migrant communities will meet the overall health needs. The time is right for public health to take a lead.

Session Objectives: 1. Understand the valuable contribution which public health can make to ensuring health for all must include those on the margins of society. 2. Describe the continuing challenge for public health workers to be sensitive to the changing social structures in which we serve.

CE Credits: CME, Health Education (CHES), Nursing