Barriers in access to care for children on the move
Information | Patients and families | Unfamiliar health system, lack of knowledge about where and how to seek care |
Variable education and literacy, with variable knowledge about health | ||
Lack of awareness about health rights | ||
Health professionals | Variable understanding of and experience with treating children on the move | |
Limited epidemiological data on the health status and context-specific risks of children on the move | ||
Lack of clear and readily available national guidance on the legal and practical aspects of healthcare for migrants | ||
Culture and language differences | Language barriers, with limited or lack of access to medical interpreters | |
Differing cultural and health beliefs | ||
Expectations for healthcare encounter may differ between the health professional and patient /family | ||
Financial | Costs associated with care may include transport to health facility, treatment, medications and medical supplies | |
Other barriers | Distance to health facility, transportation needed to access care | |
Insufficient time allotted to appointments | ||
Fear, including the fear that accessing care may affect asylum decision | ||
Breakdown in trust between patients and health workers |