Abstract
Background
In 2018, Canada resettled the most refugees in the world, in response to the greatest migration crisis in global history. The refugee and resettlement experience at critical stages of children’s development places children at risk for a number of chronic illnesses. Newcomer children with chronic illnesses or special health care needs (NCSHCN) require services and care providers across many systems, but face greater barriers to healthcare access and are at an increased risk of unmet needs, yet no research has been done to identify best practices for this vulnerable population.
Objectives
To develop an evidence-based model for high-quality, patient-centered care for NCSHCN and identify areas of need in a large Canadian city with a high density of newcomers.
Design/Methods
Using formative research design, a literature review and thematic analysis was performed to develop a conceptual model of care for NCSHCN. Next, a local environmental scan was conducted to identify and evaluate current clinics serving newcomers in a large urban Canadian city. Variables collected included the constructs identified in the conceptual model, and information about population served, providers and services offered including access to paediatrics.
Results
326 studies were identified, of which 43 studies underwent full-text review and 21 were included in the final synthesis. Six key components were identified to best support NCSHCN: access to interpreters and appropriately translated resources; delivery of culturally competent care; access to care coordination and system navigation; longer appointment times; family-centered care through medical homes and home-based services; and an enhanced knowledge and understanding of health insurance processes. The environmental scan identified 50 clinics and programs serving newcomers, with 88% providing referrals to paediatric services but only 12% with a paediatrician on-site. Eighty-eight percent offered some form of interpreter services and while 71% offered patient navigation/care coordination services, only one program was specific to navigating child health services and programs.
Conclusion
We propose a data-driven model of care for NCSHCN that can reduce the intersecting disparities these families face by promoting equitable access to health and community services, thereby improving child outcomes and quality of life. While many programs for newcomers exist, access to paediatric services remains elusive and training in cultural competency and insurance processes is variable. More programs that integrate paediatric services into the community to make quality care more accessible and family-centered are required.
Visual Impairment and Unmet Eye Care Needs Among Homeless Adults in a Canadian City
