Blog

Learn more about Catholic Charities

We're serving those
in need regardless of
faith, culture, or situation.

Click here to read our 2023 Impact Report

RECENT POSTS:

  • The Impact of Participant Food Boxes
    Many seniors across the country face food insecurity, struggling to afford or access nutritious meals. Participant Food Boxes are vital in addressing this issue by providing essential groceries to older…
  • Welcoming the Stranger: Stories of Hope from Family Immigration Services 
    By: Marissa Flores Madden  For over a decade as a high school campus minister I had the opportunity to accompany students on a number of immersion retreats featuring lessons on…
  • Empowering Parishes to Serve: Charity and Mercy Grants 
    By: Litz Main  One of the most rewarding aspects of my role is reviewing grant applications and witnessing the incredible work parishes undertake to serve their communities. Each application tells…
  • Feeding the Hungry: Innovations in Nutrition and Health 
    Chelsea Robbins  As we enter 2025, it’s clear that the fight against hunger and malnutrition is not just about feeding people—it’s about creating lasting solutions that empower individuals, families, and…
  • Empowering Families: Community Services Success Stories  
    By Chelle Smith-Vandergriff, Julia Hinton, and Tessa McIntyre  Catholic Charities of Central and Northern Missouri (CCCNMO) is committed to caring for our neighbors in need throughout the Diocese of Jefferson…
  • The Power of Chronic Disease Self-Management Programs
    Managing a chronic disease can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to define your life. Chronic Disease Self-Management Programs (CDSMPs) empower individuals to take control of their health, offering a…
  • A legacy of love — Planned giving opportunities to impact future generations
    By Litz Main  As the new year begins, millions of people set resolutions with hopeful hearts and great intentions. Yet, studies show that only about 9% of people actually achieve…
  • What is Housing Counseling and How it Benefits You
    A housing counseling session is a personalized meeting between an individual and a HUD-certified housing counselor. These sessions are designed to address various housing-related concerns. Offered by organizations that are…
  • A Reflection on Hope: An Invitation to Be the Tether 
    By: Litz Main Recently, I learned something that has profoundly shaped the way I think about hope. In Hebrew, the word for hope, Tikvah, carries a meaning that is both…
  • How your year-end gift transforms lives at Catholic Charities
    Experience the joy of giving By Jake Seifert As we approach the season of gratitude and reflection, we invite you to not only give but to feel connected to the…
  • Essential Steps in the Immigration Process
    Navigating the immigration process can be challenging, and one of the most critical steps is accurately completing and submitting the right forms. By following a clear, step-by-step approach, you can…
  • Housing Counseling
    By: Julia Hinton  September 26 marked the first-ever Housing Counselor Day, a national celebration established by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and housing agencies across the country.…

Essential Strategies for Delivering Equitable Healthcare to Refugees

October 15, 2024 |

Refugees often face challenges when accessing healthcare, such as language barriers, trauma, and cultural differences. Providing equitable health services to this vulnerable population is crucial to their well-being and successful integration. Here are three essential ways to improve healthcare for refugees:

1. Cultural Sensitivity

Healthcare providers need to be aware of cultural differences when caring for refugees. People from different countries may have specific beliefs about health and medical treatment. For example, some cultures may view mental wellness issues as a stigma, while others may prefer same-gender healthcare providers.

To provide adequate care, healthcare workers should be trained in cultural sensitivity. This training helps them understand how to communicate better with patients and respect their values. By doing so, they can build trust with refugee patients, encouraging them to seek care and follow treatment plans.

2. Language Support

Language barriers can make it difficult for refugees to explain their symptoms, understand medical instructions, or follow treatment plans. This can lead to misunderstandings and delayed care. To overcome this, medical care systems should offer language support services, such as interpreters or translated health materials.

Using professional interpreters, either in person or through video or phone services, can improve communication and ensure refugees fully understand their care. Language support is essential for refugees to feel confident about their health decisions.

3. Trauma-Informed Care

Many refugees have experienced traumatic events, such as war, violence, or forced displacement. These experiences can have lasting mental health effects, such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Medical care providers must recognize the impact of trauma on refugees’ health and well-being.

Trauma-informed care involves creating a safe and supportive environment for refugees. This means being mindful of their emotional needs, offering mental health services, and building trust between patients and providers. By addressing both physical and mental wellness, healthcare providers can offer more comprehensive care to refugees.

Join the Effort To Support Healthcare for Refugee

Would you like to make a positive impact on the lives of refugees? You can be part of the solution by supporting organizations that provide critical services.

Catholic Charities of Central and Northern Missouri is dedicated to helping refugees access healthcare, housing, and other essential resources. Whether you volunteer, donate, or advocate, your involvement can directly improve the lives of those in need. Contact us to learn how you can create a healthier and more equitable future for refugees in your community.