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Ableism and Structural Inequities: A Refugee Child With Developmental Disabilities.
Victor Do1,2, Cassandra Nelson3, Sabrina H Y Eliason4
1Department of Pediatrics, Stollery Children's Hospital, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada.
This case study shows how refugee children with disabilities face significant health care barriers. Addressing systemic inequities and cultural responsiveness is crucial for providing equitable pediatric care.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Health
- Health Equity
- Disability Studies
Background:
- Refugee families, particularly those with children experiencing developmental disabilities, encounter multifaceted systemic barriers within healthcare systems.
- These barriers include communication difficulties, cultural misunderstandings, lack of developmental accommodations, and misinterpretation of behavioral challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the intersectional inequities faced by refugee children with disabilities in healthcare settings.
- To underscore the need for systemic changes to improve accessibility and inclusivity in pediatric care.
Main Methods:
- A case study approach examining the experience of a 5-year-old Syrian refugee child with suspected autism spectrum disorder.
- Analysis of systemic barriers including communication, cultural factors, developmental accommodations, insurance status, and health records.
Main Results:
- The child's prolonged hospitalization was marked by significant challenges due to unaddressed developmental needs and cultural misunderstandings.
- Structural issues such as lack of insurance and incomplete health records exacerbated care inadequacies.
Conclusions:
- There is a critical need to address intersectional inequities in pediatric care for refugee children with disabilities.
- Implementing consistent interpreter services and frameworks like the WHO ICF can foster culturally responsive and inclusive healthcare delivery.
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