A snapshot of refugee health program

The Georgia Department Of Community Health
A SNAPSHOT OF
Refugee health Program
What is the purpose of the program?
The purpose of the State of Georgia Refugee Health Program (SRHP) is to promote the physical, mental, and social well being of all newly arriving refugees in the state of Georgia.
What does the program do?
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. 3 Interpreters available in the following languages: Arabic, May-maay (Somali Bantu), Russian,
Somali, and Swahili. 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.
How many people does the program help?
In calendar year 2008, Georgia received 2,826 refugees. Eighty-seven percent received health screenings.
Why is the program important?
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.
Who is eligible?
Refugees, Asylees, Parolees, and Victims of Human Trafficking are eligible for the program.
Where are services located?
Statewide local county health departments provide the refugee domestic health screening.
What are the program outcome measures?
Increase in the percentage of newly arriving refugees who receive a domestic health assessment within 90 days of their arrival in Georgia.
Legislative authority:
Official Code of Georgia Annotated (O.C.G.A.) Section 31-2-2 http://www.legis.state.ga.us/cgi-bin/gl_codes_detail. pl?code=31-2-2.

2 Peachtree Street, Atlanta, Ga 30303 w www.dch.georgia.gov

July 2009