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John G. Benitez, MD, MPH, Finger Lakes Regional Poison and Drug Information Center, University of Rochester, 601 Elmwood Ave., Box 321, Rochester, NY 14642, 585-273-4155, john_benitez@urmc.rochester.edu and Marilyn Klotz, Center for Governmental Research, 1 South Washington Street, Suite 400, Rochester, NY 14614.
Migrant workers do not routinely use poison centers. A needs assessment was conducted consisting of interviews with agencies serving migrant workers and focus groups of migrant workers. Findings included language/cultural barriers, limited telephone access, suspicion of medical outsiders, and fear of job security. Planning between the Center for Governmental Research (CGR) and the Finger Lakes Regional Poison and Drug Information Center (FLRPDIC) developed outreach materials and strategies based on the needs assessment study. Appropriate reading level materials were developed and translated. A special type of booklet, a “telenovela” was also developed for adults with the aim of demonstrating what a poison center is and why it should be used. The needs assessment found that directly taking outreach materials to the migrant worker camps would not be welcomed by the workers and by some growers. We developed a teaching module that migrant worker agencies can utilize to do outreach with the workers. Part of our outreach teaching materials showed sensitivity to workers concern for reporting work related illness. Similar concerns have been expressed by agencies attempting to care for migrant workers and they appreciated our attempts at helping in this situation. Concern was also expressed by some growers at presenting material showing that work chemicals could be hazardous. Therefore material was incorporated into the general poison prevention brochures and not into a specific workplace pesticide brochure. Another needs assessment item was that many healthcare providers may not inquire about workplace exposures. The poison center is developing specific outreach to healthcare providers to address this need. Poison centers need to be sensitive to the unique needs of migrant workers and work through existing agencies to reach workers.
Learning Objectives:
Keywords: Access to Health Care, Migrant Farm Workers
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
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.