Policy Statement: Towards better health for refugee children and young people in Australia and New Zealand: The RACP Perspective

Abstract

Children and young people make up around 50% of the humanitarian refugee intake in Australia and New Zealand (over 13 000 people per year) and are arguably the most vulnerable subgroup. The health needs of refugee children and young people have been well documented and include high rates of preventable conditions and psychosocial morbidity. The primary aim of this policy statement is to advocate for timely and high quality health care for every refugee child and young person living in Australia and New Zealand. It recommends that the following are required in order to deliver the most effective health care to refugee children and young people: (i) health service enhancement, (ii) the promotion of research and the development of an evidence base, (iii) dedicated training, and (iv) professional practice. The recommendations range from interventions that involve government leadership to interventions directed at health services and professionals.