Annual Report Dokters van de Wereld (Médecins du Monde ...

7. Report of projects of Dokters van de Wereld7a. The Netherlands – Medoc / Access to Care for undocumentedmigrantsDokters van de Wereld has been working since 2005 to improve the access to the Dutchhealth care for migrants without valid residence papers. Because of the absence of theirresidence status they are not allowed to take out health insurance. However, they are legallyentitled to all medically necessary care. Barriers such as lack of information about rights andfinancial resources or fear of being arrested, impede good access.Activities 2011: Informing groups of migrants via the website, folders in their own language, local radio,self-help organisations and migrant churches Informing undocumented migrants about their rights and care options during individualconsulting hours, at 3 locations (Amsterdam Centrum and Zuidoost, The Hague) andvia the telephone helpline Offering blood pressure measurements, blood tests and self-care resources to closethe gap to regular care Active inscription of undocumented migrants at GP practices Registration of access problems and mediation with health care professionals andfacilities Advocacy with (local) government and health professional organizations, amongstothers through a national NGO platformResults 2011: Consultancy and mediations: A total of 1,367 client consultancies have been given (714in consultancy hours, 653 via telephone). 146 access problems where reported ofrefused or delayed care. Of these 84% was solved with mediation of Dokters van deWereld Pilot offering consulting hours Amsterdam Zuidoost was started 78 patients where inscribed in a GM practice, some after intensive mediation Workgroups investigated the themes of Cardiovascular risks, Mental Health andHealthy pregnancy & sexual health examination, by offering different test services,which can be implemented in 2012 Advocacy: In collaboration with the Breed Medisch Overleg (BMO) (Broad MedicalConsultation) the closed expert meeting 'Effects of exclusion of the Public Health,casus undocumented' was organized, in which professional organizations and otherprofessionals vowed to actively help find solutions We participated in the International Observatory of the international network of Doktersvan de Wereld, with questions about the health and access to care of 103 patients.These will be used (anonymously) for the joint European lobby.16