Migrants and health in Portugal

Abstract

The aim of this research is to attain knowledge on immigrant´s health related problems and to identify their difficulties when accessing health care services. The article describes immigrant´s difficulties when accessing health care services that are visiting the health office at a National Immigrant Support Centre. Design: A qualitative study was conducted, analysing available documentation and observing the health issues dealt with at the National Immigrant Support Centre’s (CNAI) Health Office. The 148 cases are mainly immigrants coming from Portuguese speaking African countries for health purposes. Immigrants from Brazil have more restricted access, and feel discrimination on the part of the services. Immigrants from Eastern Europe come in search of information and have communication difficulties. Obstacles are related to the lack of knowledge of the law, but also to the failure of putting the law into practice. The office has had a great demand of users seeking information and in accessing the health care system. Results: The cases analysed are mainly nationals from Portuguese Speaking African Countries (PSAC), Brazil and countries in Eastern Europe. The majority of the immigrants coming from PSAC are patients receiving treatment under international Cooperation Agreements requesting financial and social support. Immigrants from Brazil have more restricted access and feel greater discrimination on the part of the services. New Labour Migrants from Eastern Europe, on the other hand, come in search of information and are known to have communication difficulties. Conclusions: Legislation in Portugal provides access to health care to all citizens, regardless of their legal condition and origin. However, some immigrants have had significant difficulties with access to Portugal’s National Health Service. The obstacles are not only related to the lack of legal knowledge, but also to the failure of putting the law into practice, which requires attention by the institution responsible for effective and comprehensive coordination. The office has had a great demand of users seeking information, who, above all, wish to solve their problems and difficulties in accessing the health care system.