Initial health assessments of children and young people seeking asylum and refugees in Europe: insights from a qualitative study of health care providers.

In 2023, the number of people seeking asylum globally reached a record high, with 38% aged under 18. Over the past three decades, Europe has experienced the largest increase in international migration since records began. However, research focused on the health of migrant children remains limited. While European guidelines for their care exist, evidence regarding the implementation of these recommendations is limited. This study explores practices and experiences of health care professionals in Europe who conduct initial health assessments (IHAs) for children and young people seeking asylum and refugees (CYPSAR). A qualitative study was conducted (between July and August 2022), using questionnaires and semi-structured interviews to explore perspectives of health care providers WHO care for migrant children in Europe. Participants were recruited through snowball sampling from European expert networks, with 16 clinicians from eight European countries taking part. Data were analysed thematically using NVivo12. We found considerable variation in the content and delivery of IHAs, particularly with regard to screening for communicable and non-communicable diseases. Although immunisation was prioritised, some services lacked vaccination capabilities. Mental health services were limited, with minimal standardised screening. Key barriers to care included insufficient documentation, limited funding, staffing, patient relocation, and inadequate infrastructure to support migrant health. Access to professional translators and the involvement of multidisciplinary teams were considered the main facilitators.

conclusionCare delivery for migrant children across Europe remains variable despite existing guidelines. Significant barriers to delivery of equitable, quality care exist. There is a need for resources tailored to address challenges in migrant health. Further research is needed to inform evidence-based practice and achieve high-quality equitable care for migrant children in Europe. WHAT IS KNOWN: • Children seeking asylum and refugees face particular health challenges shaped by experiences before, during and after migration. • Recommendations for initial health assessments upon arrival in European host countries exist, but their implementation across different settings remains variable. WHAT IS NEW: • While the content and delivery of initial health assessments for children and young people seeking asylum and refugees vary across Europe, clinicians consistently identify common barriers and facilitators to health care. • Our findings emphasise the need for an evidence-based approach to support effective, consistent delivery of services to this vulnerable group and provide insight into factors which may influence this.