Immigrant and Refugee Health in Pediatrics

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, one in four children in the United States are part of an immigrant family unit. By definition, immigrant children are those born outside the United States or who have at least one foreign-born parent. In the last decade, global conflicts have propelled migration, creating a more diverse migrant population — and giving rise to divisive sociopolitical policy in our country. Like all children, the experiences of this patient population are diverse and have direct impacts on their biopsychosocial development. Additionally, refugee and immigrant children may face unique challenges of inequity that can threaten their health and well-being.

Listen to pediatric experts discuss refugee and immigrant children

In this episode, Janine Young, MD, joins us to discuss how pediatric medical providers can support the refugee and immigrant patient population.

Dr. Young is the Medical Director of the Denver Health Refugee Clinic, Co-Medical Director of the Denver Health Human Rights Clinic and Medical Advisor for the Colorado Refugee Services Program. She is also Associate Professor of Pediatrics at the University of Colorado School of Medicine.

In this episode, our experts discuss:

• Definitions of immigrant and refugee populations and subpopulations
• Recent influx of unaccompanied children arriving at the U.S. border
• Policies and protections affecting unaccompanied minors and asylum seekers
• How immigrant children are housed and cared for in Office of Refugee Resettlement shelters
• Medical screening and medical care for immigrant children
• Opportunities to get involved with refugee health through local and national groups

Resources for providers:

• Refugee Health Guidance (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
• American Academy of Pediatrics Council on Immigrant Child and Family Health
• Society of Refugee Healthcare Providers