Refugee Health Policy Essay

920 Words2 Pages

A major domestic problem confronting the United States is directly related to accommodating a health policy for an influx of international refugees, regardless of their legal statuses. The current political climate combined with an increasing number of migrants globally requires extra attention to this policy issue. This topic is important to me because of my own inter-mixed Desi heritage where Pakistan is the second largest country to lead the intake of international refugees at an astounding 1.5 million individuals according to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. Only after understanding the importance of refugee health policy in American domestic affairs did I realize exactly how problematic this situation is for America in relation to my personal …show more content…

Knowing incoming populations likely have health related problems which can be humanely addressed by health professionals from their own cultures is also a reason why physicians should be involved in such a topic. Familiarity creates comfort which is necessary for people who left damaged and war-torn countries and deceitful regimes for welcoming, stable nations in the West. As a first generation immigrant, I have seen fear of entering into a new country first-hand through my parents and grandparents. Because of the cultural difference and lack of education on Western medicine, my parents too were conflicted with the health policies. When my father was diagnosed with Hepatitis C, he hesitated before starting the medical treatments to make him better. Therefore, my interest is two fold not only because of my own background, but because I can’t understand how nations can take in refugees without providing solid social service programs catered to their needs. This is exactly why this policy area needs to be reformed and adjusted to meet the demands of all people residing in

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