Response to provide key health services to Ukrainian refugees: The overview and implementation studies

• Published in: Social science & medicine (1982) 2023-10, Vol.334, p.116221-116221, Article 116221
• Main Authors: Biesiada, Aleksander, Mastalerz-Migas, Agnieszka, Babicki, Mateusz
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Language barrier; Medical records; Modern information technology; Primary health care; Refugees; System solutions
• ISSN: 0277-9536; 1873-5347
• DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2023.116221

The outbreak of war in Ukraine has contributed to the largest migration crisis in this part of Europe since the Second World War. In a short period of time, several million refugees of different ages and with different health needs have arrived in Poland. This study aims to assess the health problems of Ukrainian refugees, evaluate the barriers faced by primary care physicians (PCPs), and analyse and evaluate the system solutions available (including the use of modern information technology) to address them. Methodology: For this purpose, an original questionnaire distributed to PCPs in Poland was created and a literature review of implemented system solutions was conducted. The survey was conducted between the 3rd-10th April 2022–45 days after the outbreak of the war. The survey was repeated between 20th January and February 15, 2023. Results: The survey was completed by 402 physicians who provided health care to refugees at that time. There were 252 respondents in the first stage of the study while 150 PCPs took part in the repeat survey. The findings of the survey revealed that the most common health problems among refugees were infections, regardless of age. The biggest barrier to providing care to refugees was the lack of available medical records and language difficulties. During the first months of the refugee influx in Poland, many – both systemic and grassroot – solutions were implemented to improve the quality of health care for refugees. Conclusions: According to PCPs, the language barrier and the lack of previous medical records are key constraints when providing medical care to refugees. The health needs of refugees and the difficulties in providing care for them require constant monitoring and implementation of appropriate systemic solutions that can reduce the limitations in the daily work of medical staff. •The health profile of refugees in Poland is diverse and requires a holistic approach.•There is an important role for primary health services to provide health care for refugees.•The language barrier and the lack of previous medical records are key constraints when providing medical care to refugees.•Online tools can be used as a help for refugees and health care workers, however after careful preparation.