Georgia, like many other states, has experienced a significant increase in its immigrant populations over the last decade. Currently, Georgia residents represent almost all regions of the world. These shifting demographics present a significant challenge for Georgia’s Division of Public Health (GDPH), in adequately meeting the MCH needs of Georgia’s increasingly diverse population. An extensive statewide MCH needs assessment conducted in 2000 revealed that internal and external MCH stakeholders are interested in improving MCH services for immigrants. Consequently, an additional needs assessment, utilizing a range of qualitative and quantitative data collection methods, was conducted during 2001. The purpose of this assessment was to determine strategies for enhancing MCH services available to Georgia’s immigrant population. The needs assessment investigated: (1) current demographics; (2) “best practices” from other states for serving immigrant populations; (3) accessibility and appropriateness of services currently available; (4) provider and consumer perceptions of services and service needs; (5) effects of policy on MCH among GA’s immigrants; and (6) collaborative opportunities for state and community level stakeholders to address immigrants' health. This session will provide an overview of the needs assessment process and findings, as well as discuss strategies, recommendations, and implications, which may be relevant to other states.
Learning Objectives:
Keywords: Immigrants, Maternal and Child Health
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.