Assisting Newcomers with Navigating the U.S. Health Care System: An Introduction for Direct Service Providers

Hosted on October 19, 2022, the training was delivered by Mary Fabio, MD, Marc J. Altshuler, MD, Ariel Ressler MacNeill, MPH, and Blain Mamo, MPH. Recently arrived newcomers to the United States and the service providers who support them face many barriers in navigating the complex U.S. health care system. While systems navigation is difficult for all refugee and other newcomer clients, the recent influx of Afghan and Ukrainian newcomers has shed new light on these challenges. This training will review U.S. health care coverage options and health-related benefits, including the initial domestic medical screening available to newcomers. This foundational systems knowledge will help providers support newcomers in accessing health care services that align with their strengths and needs. Participants will also have the opportunity to ask questions of a panel composed of qualified experts on this topic.

This training is geared toward direct service staff, including case workers, medical case workers, case managers, etc., who are interested in an introductory understanding of the different healthcare benefits and coverage options available to their clients. This training is also relevant for community partners and sponsors providing initial resettlement assistance to newcomers.

By the end of this session, you will be able to:

  1. Describe U.S. healthcare coverage options and health-related benefits available to newcomers, including Refugee Medical Assistance, Medicaid, and others.
  2. Name key U.S. health services available to newcomers, including domestic medical screening, primary care, and others.