Action Area : Migrants
Migrants , those who work in the farming or agricultural industry , or others with unknown immigration status face unique hardships and barriers to accessing care .
Migrant workers often have precarious employment conditions and are more likely to be exposed to workplace hazards and other challenges that may heighten stress levels and increase the need for behavioral health support . Not only may they have the cultural issues due to stigma that affect many communities and the lack of understanding how processes operate in this country , they also may face language barriers and the risk of deportation for themselves , their family , or their friends . As a result , they can be among the hardest to reach either proactively or reactively , yet many indicated that the indigent healthcare funds have helped a large number of people . Therefore , awareness of services , culturally appropriate access to care , and the challenges associated with stigma are among the barriers to care for migrants .
• “ Migrant issues include confidentiality and language needs , and not knowing the system . The first door is unknown !”
• “ Cultural barriers are a big deal for migrant workers , immigrants including the Creole population . All are super reluctant to engage in ANY behavioral services .”
• “ Patients don ’ t trust the government . They ’ re very worried about immigration .”
• “ Migrant population in fear because many parents aren ' t legal and don ' t want to report anything to anyone that might keep an able-bodied student from working in fields . Language barriers – kids whose parents don ' t speak English have to skip school to take parent to doctor .”
Examples of Potential Interventions for Stage 3
• Expand indigent healthcare funds .
• Research the possibility of training leaders in Peer Support Program .
• Incorporate cultural sensitivity training for Care Coordinators , Community Health Workers , and others having the ability to motivate migrants to get needed care .
• Increase communications targeted at this community .
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