Access to healthcare
In the UK, refugees and asylum seekers are entitled to free NHS care and can register with a GP free of charge in the same way as any other resident in the UK. They can also access hospital-based care.
As with other communities in the settled population, challenges to access health and care services include language and communication barriers, as well as cultural differences. Despite translation and interpretation services being available, cultural and health related attitude differences may impact on the likelihood of refugees and asylum seekers to advocate for themselves and engage with health, care and other services. Health professionals working with vulnerable migrant groups to be aware of how cultural, spiritual and religious beliefs may impact on an individual’s health and wellbeing, and to tailor services to individuals’ needs where possible. Recognising this, the WHO highlights the importance of cultural-responsiveness training for healthcare professionals, and the role of professionally trained interpreters to help address potential barriers.
Recommendation: Continue to improve access to health and social care