Health needs of refugees: port of arrival versus permanent camp settings

The world's refugee population has surpassed 21 million, the large majority of which resides in developing countries. Refugees have relatively high rates of healthcare utilization for management of both long-term needs, such as diabetes, and acute conditions, such as scabies.

Using interviews of stakeholders in disparate healthcare settings, we aim to elucidate both common themes and areas of difference that should be recognized and addressed as the refugee crisis continues.

This qualitative interview study compares and contrasts two settings for healthcare provision for refugees: the permanent setting of Za'atari, a camp in Jordan, versus the transitory arrival location of Lampedusa, Italy.

We present data from 12 semi-structured interviews with experts in refugee healthcare that have experience in these two locations. We focus on issues of disease burden and health screening, organizational structures and services, cultural competency, and international response.

We compiled recommendations to improve healthcare for refugees include recognizing differing health needs of refugees in Za'atari and Lampedusa, training providers in culturally-competent care, screening for and treating psychiatric disorders, and prioritizing agency coordination, documentation, and advocacy.