THE HEALTH OF MIDDLE EASTERN IMMIGRANTS/REFUGEES IN THE U.S. AND THE BARRIERS THEY FACE TO CARE: A REVIEW

Abstract

Immigrants and refugees in the U.S. tend to face many significant difficulties in obtaining good health care. In this analysis, I review what is known and unique about the health of Middle Eastern immigrants/refugees in the U.S., with a particular focus on Iraqis, and identify the barriers to healthcare that they commonly face. The most significant obstacles noted include cultural and religious differences, poverty, discrimination and distrust, and language barriers. In the process of discussing these factors, I reveal how this population understands health in the context of their religion and of their migration status. I also extrapolate how the barriers they face are likely to be exacerbated due to the COVID-19 pandemic and postulate solutions to these issues.