Syrian Refugees Blend Local, Remote Health Care

Why this is here: The study interviewed 20 Syrian refugees, finding all of them actively combined Canadian health care with practices from their home country to manage their health needs.

Researchers at York University in Canada found older Syrian refugees in the Greater Toronto Area combine Canadian health services with care accessed from their home country. The study used interviews with 20 refugees between 55 and 63 years old. They discovered many faced language barriers, long waits, and a lack of culturally sensitive care within Canada’s system.

These refugees built “hybrid” care pathways. They consulted doctors abroad, obtained medications across borders, and relied on family support.

Digital tools like video calls helped overcome distance and language issues. This gave them more control over their care and helped maintain continuity.

However, these combined approaches also created risks. Medication safety and fragmented care were concerns.

Access to technology wasn’t equal for all. The research suggests health systems need to better integrate transnational care practices.

This includes culturally appropriate services and digital inclusion. Further study could explore the long-term effects of these hybrid systems.