Medical Approach to Refugees: Importance of the Caring Physician

Abstract

Migrants pose many challenges to recipient countries, including preparedness and resilience of health systems and provision of access to health services. Refugees and asylum seekers comprise a heterogenous group with significant and complex health needs, including the physical and mental consequences of violence. Physicians are often on the frontline in providing care for these unassisted, vulnerable and often maligned and misunderstood population groups. The need to adopt an effective and compassionate medical approach is imperative, including an awareness of unconscious biases and differences in gender roles, decision-making, and social taboos. In addition to practical steps to promote and build a trusting relationship between patient and physician during consultations, physicians require a broad knowledge of anthropology, history, sociology, and drivers of migration such as conflict, resource scarcity and climate change for a better understanding of their patients.