Health
We recognise that migration- and ethnicity-related factors are important social determinants of health. There is evidence of inequalities in both the state of health of migrants and refugees, and their access to health services.
Migrant and Refugee Health Partnership
SPG auspices the Migrant and Refugee Health Partnership that brings together the health care providers and the community to address systemic barriers to health access for migrant and refugee communities. The Partnership provides a strong focus both on the health system capability to work effectively with migrants and refugees, and on strengthening health-promoting assets in migrant and refugee communities with a view to improving community health and wellbeing.
Promoting the health of refugees and migrants globally
SPG and the Migrant and Refugee Health Partnership worked closely with the World Health Organization to develop Global Competency Standards that highlight the competencies and behaviours needed to provide high-quality health services to refugees and migrants, as well as a Knowledge Guide and Curriculum Guide to operationalize the standards. This work was informed by reviews of the common health needs of refugees and migrants and of the levels of health care accessible by refugees and migrants in 18 countries.
Supporting the COVID-19 Vaccination Program rollout to multicultural communities
SPG has worked closely with the Department of Health to support the COVID-19 Vaccination Program rollout to migrant and refugee communities through a communication and engagement strategy. Through SETSCoP, Harmony Alliance and the Migrant and Refugee Health Partnership, SPG has held consultations and information sessions with settlement service providers and migrant and refugee women to understand the key issues and concerns relating to the rollout. SPG has also developed strategies and recommendations to effectively communicate with multicultural communities and increase COVID-19 vaccine access.
Culturally Responsive Practice with Older People in Health and Aged Care
SPG and Migrant and Refugee Health Partnership collaborated with Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation to develop an e-learning course for health practitioners working with older people from migrant and refugee backgrounds. The e-learning course contextualises best practice across different settings including primary health care, residential aged care and end-of-life care.
