Integration of refugees into routine primary care in NSW, Australia

Refugees have complex physical, psychological and social needs that are challenging to manage comprehensively in primary care. In recent years, many refugees settling in Australia have been sponsored by family members. Although they may receive settlement support, these new arrivals may not be assessed or managed by specialised refugee health services. Their sponsors usually link them to bilingual general practitioners, but these doctors may not be aware of or have access to a comprehensive range of services. There is an urgent need for more integrated health service provision for people from refugee backgrounds, based on trust and communication. This requires change at the practice, local service and system level.