Anna Banerji MD MPH FRCPC DTM&H O.OntMarch 17th 2012

My role Question: Barriers to Multicultural Health

Research Research issues

◦ Not a priority vs CVS drugs◦ Not understand the different categories of

newcomers◦ Not a large lobby◦ Lack of funding for research◦ Systematic racism

Newcomer issues◦ Language, study what is easier to study

Interpreters are expensive◦ What is informed consent to a refugee?◦ Research is not a priority if you live in poverty,

can’t navigate the system, can’t feed your family◦ Children have little power◦ More vulnerable, research is less of a priority◦ Undocumented people are hard to reach, may not

want to disclose status

Lack of funds, Lack of implementation

◦ Research shows malnutrition is rampant-but can’t afford vitamins

◦ Still living in poverty Competing time for clinicians, service vs

research

mental health, impact of mental health of parents

Nutrition Parasites Other infectious diseases The impact of poverty Lack of health insurance Increasing benefits for ITF 

Setting priorities in research based on needs and working backwards

Increasing forums for Education and Research◦ Collaboration and sharing of information◦ Canadian Refugee Health Conference◦ Evidence based medicine

Enhanced collaboration of Clinicians & researchers

Enhanced research funding Greater lobby and KT Press releases on studies