Somatic health of unaccommodated asylum seekers: mapping available data in Brussels

Since 2022, the crisis surrounding the reception of asylum seekers has been worsening in Belgium. As of January 2025, the waiting time to access governmental accommodation averaged around 4 months, especially among single men, whose access to medical assistance is often compromised. The health of asylum seekers is recognised as a public health concern, and the lack of data remains a challenge in this area.

Considering these findings, the aim of this study was to take stock of the data available in Brussels concerning the health of asylum seekers not accommodated by Fedasil.

A three-phase qualitative approach was deployed. The first phase involved ethnographic methodology, direct observation, and on-site interviews with the population concerned to learn about their healthcare pathways and health needs. The second phase involved documentary analysis and interviews with workers to map the existing data. The third phase involved semi-structured interviews to discuss areas for improvement with experts.

Twenty on-site interviews were conducted, highlighting fragmented care pathways and health needs related to living conditions. A model mapping the collection, analysis, and use of data showed that there was a lack of harmonisation, systematisation, and software interoperability. Twelve semi-structured interviews were conducted providing a better understanding and suggest areas for improvement.

The poor quality of health data concerning unaccommodated asylum seekers compromises the implementation of continuity of care and a comprehensive vision for public health. Areas for improvement must be explored in depth through a participatory approach involving the populations and workers concerned.