Abstract
AIM: To describe the findings and recommendations of the general health assessment (GHA) of newly resettled refugee children in Denmark.
METHODS: This cross-sectional study included children (aged <18 years) undergoing GHA from 2017 to 2019 at a university hospital Section of Immigrant Medicine. GHA was offered to all refugees newly resettled in the Municipality of Copenhagen. It comprised of a structured questionnaire, clinical examination, blood test and recommendations.
RESULTS: In the study period, 107 children were eligible, 100 children had a GHA performed and of whom all were included in the study. Trauma was reported in 61% (n = 61/100) of children. The median duration of the asylum-seeking process was 18 months (IQR: 8-24), and the highest number of relocations was nine. Latent tuberculosis (n = 2/100 [2%]) was the only infectious disease diagnosed. Specific recommendations for follow-up were frequent and included referral to specialist departments (n = 26/100 [26%]), suggestions for family doctor (n = 96/100 [96%]) and for municipality (n = 62/100 [62%]).
CONCLUSION: Self-reported trauma was frequent among 100 newly resettled refugee children. For most children, the asylum process was protracted and included several relocations. Specific follow-up recommendations were given to the vast majority. GHA may contribute to improving health, which could possibly support integration for the child and family.
Originalsprog | Engelsk |
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Tidsskrift | Acta paediatrica |
Vol/bind | 110 |
Udgave nummer | 8 |
Sider (fra-til) | 2389-2395 |
Antal sider | 7 |
ISSN | 1651-2227 |
DOI | |
Status | Udgivet - aug. 2021 |