Health

Health care in the United States includes a variety of systems offering different types of services. It is important that you ask your resettlement agency for information on health care in your community.

Soon after arrival in the U.S., you and your family may be contacted to arrange for a preventive health screening. The purpose of this screening is to identify and treat any health problem which may interfere with your resettlement, including your ability to obtain employment or attend classes. The screening, which is free of charge, may be at a public health office, a community health center, or a doctor's office.

In the U.S., each individual, not the government, is generally responsible for paying for health services. The cost of health care is high, so most people rely on insurance programs, often through their employer.

Health insurance can be obtained for a monthly payment. Some employers offer insurance and may pay all or part of the monthly payment. There is usually a waiting period from the time you are hired until you become eligible for health insurance. There are many insurance companies offering different types of programs. Health maintenance organizations (HMOs) are an increasingly common form of insurance program. Through this system, care is provided by a group of private doctors and clinics. Each member of an HMO has an assigned doctor who provides primary care and must approve any visits to emergency rooms, hospitals, or specialists. In some situations, the full cost of medical care will be paid by the insurance company; in others you will be required to pay part of the costs.

To assist people with low incomes, there are government programs which cover some medical expenses. The government programs described here may be changing. Ask staff at your resettlement agency to help you obtain accurate, up-to-date information about health services available to you.

Refugees are eligible to apply for Refugee Medical Assistance (RMA) or Medicaid at a designated local government office. Both programs pay for medical care for people with low incomes. Applicants must complete a form (or forms) that require proof of income and other personal information.

Health care services are different in every community. In most cases, an appointment is required for medical, dental, or mental health care. You will need to learn about the health services available in your community, some of which are described below.

The Public Health Department Most offices provide immunizations against diseases and offer other preventive health services, including testing and treatment for tuberculosis. For refugees, these services are free or very inexpensive. Parents should be sure to check with the Public Health Department about immunizations for their children. All children enrolling in public school must submit proof of receiving required immunizations.

Private doctors These physicians provide general and specialized health care. The doctor's office usually requires proof of ability to pay or insurance information at the time of appointment. Some doctors work as part of a private clinic or in a group with other general practitioners and specialists.

Community clinics or health centers These are supported by government and private sources. They accept private insurance and Medicaid, or charge fees based on the uninsured patient's income.

Hospitals These institutions may be found in almost every American community. Doctors or clinics refer patients with special problems to the hospital for tests and surgery. Hospital care is expensive, and hospitals require proof of insurance or ability to pay for those services.

Emergency rooms These facilities in hospitals or elsewhere are for sudden, extreme health problems. Often busy, emergency rooms require no appointment, but a long wait may be necessary. For most health problems, you should call or make an appointment with a doctor. Use the emergency room only when absolutely necessary. Emergency care is usually provided regardless of your insurance or ability to pay.

Ambulance service This service provides transportation and medical help when needed immediately and there is no other way to take the injured or sick person to receive emergency medical care. Ambulance services usually charge a fee after service has been provided.

Dental care This is provided through private dentists and through clinics. Free or low-cost dental services are rare, but may be available through public health or community clinics. Not all health insurance plans include coverage for dental services.

Mental health care This can be provided through private doctors and therapists and through clinics. Some mental health services may be available through mutual assistance associations and family service agencies. Some resettlement agencies provide counseling services and can help you find other mental health services.

The Cultural Orientation Project--http://www.culturalorientation.net, for more information contact sanja@cal.org
Last Updated: 4/25/00