Refugee Health Program
Purpose of Program
The purpose of the Georgia Department of Community Health Refugee Health Program is to promote the physical, mental, and social well-being of all newly arriving refugees in the state of Georgia.
Overview
The program ensures that refugees receive adequate healthcare, which is not provided in their native country. Screening refugees within 90 days of their arrival aids in the reduction of contracting contagious diseases and/or spreading any diseases to the indigenous community in which the refugee resides. In correlation, outreach services provide health education to the refugee community, further ensuring prevention of infirmity. During calendar year 2008, Georgia received 2,824 refugees. Eighty-seven percent received health screenings.
Functions of the Program
Health Screening and Immunization
- Collaborates with county health departments to screen all newly arriving refugees
in Georgia for communicable diseases and to administer immunizations. To receive benefits, refugees must
be screened within ninety days of their arrival. Refugees screened after ninety days
will be covered by Medicaid.
Interpretation and Translation
- Provides interpretation and translation services.
- 4 Interpreters available in the following languages: Russian, Somali,
Vietnamese
- Medical interpretation during health screening and follow-up
- Translates documents and consent forms
Outreach
- Home visits to ensure compliance with medical treatment plans
- Assist refugees during visits to the doctor, hospital, dentist, Stress Clinic, etc.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is a Refugee?
A refugee, as defined by the Refugee Act of 1980, is a person who is outside of and unable or unwilling to avail himself/herself of the protection of the home country because of persecution or fear of persecution on account of race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion.
Who is Eligible?
Refugees, Asylees, Cuban/Haitian Entrants, and Victims of Human Trafficking is eligible for the program.
Where are services located?
Statewide – local county health departments provide the refugee domestic health screening.
Refugee Health Data
Annual Arrivals – County of Resettlement & Country of Origin
Cumulative Arrivals
Other Refugee Health Resources
2009-2010 State of Georgia Refugee Health Guidelines Manual
Refugee Health Initial Health Screening/Invoice Form
County Health Departments
Centers for Disease Control Quarantine Stations
Office of Refugee Resettlement
Pandemic Flu
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