Perspectives of Refugee Parents and Unaccompanied Minors on Initial Health Assessment and Access to Care

Abstract

Abstract Purpose To explore needs, expectations and experiences of asylum-seeking parents and unaccompanied minors under the age of 18 years on the initial health assessment for children and adolescents, and access to care upon entry in the Netherlands. Methods We conducted five semi-structured focus group discussions with asylum seeking parents and unaccompanied minors, from Syria, Eritrea, Afghanistan and other middle-east and African countries, supported by professional interpreters. To triangulate findings, semi-structured interviews with health care professionals involved in care for refugee children were conducted. Transcripts of focus group discussions were inductively and deductively coded and content analysed, transcripts of interviews were deductively coded and content analysed. Results In total, 31 asylum seeking participants: 23 parents of 101 children (between 0–18 years old), 8 unaccompanied minors (between 15–17 years) and 6 healthcare professionals participated. Parents and minors expressed that upon entry, their needs were met for vaccinations, but not for screening or care for physical and mental health problems. Parents, minors and health professionals emphasized the necessity of appropriate information and education about health, diseases and the health system. Cultural change was mentioned as stressful for parent-child interaction and parental well-being. Conclusion The perspectives of refugee parents and unaccompanied minors revealed opportunities to improve the experience of and access to health care of refugees entering the Netherlands, especially risk-specific screening and more adequate education about health, diseases and the Dutch health care system.