Health strategies of asylum seekers and refugees and primary care in Switzerland

• Research unit: TPH
• Project number: 2000-24

Key words (German)

Asylsuchende, Flüchtlinge, Migranten, Gesundheit, Schweiz, Netzwerke, Epidemiologie, Gesundheitsdienste

Key words (English)

asylum seekers, refugees, migrants, Switzerland, health services, networks, epidemiology

Short description (English)

Asylum seekers and refugees (AS&R) living in Switzerland are a heterogeneous group from different countries and cultural backgrounds, and with different experiences of migration. A better understanding of their specific health needs is required for a responsive health system. Initial studies (1994 - 6) examined illness experience and health care provided by general practitioners and public hospitals. Current research focuses on the interaction of migrants with the different providers of Swiss primary health care services, their health-seeking strategies and networks, and their current physical and mental health needs.

Project aims (English)

To investigate the interaction of migrants, including asylum seekers and refugees, with the Swiss primary health care services, with the aim of clarifying main problem areas and identifying possibilities for improvement

Transfer and application (English)

The results of the study are currently being disseminated in scientific publications and in guidelines and other advice for health services personnel.

URL-addresses (English)

http://www.sti.ch