One in five people living in Ireland was born outside the State. To date, little evidence is available on immigrant communities’ access to cancer and healthcare services.
The Irish Cancer Society asked TASC (Think-tank for Action on Social Change) to examine the experience of migrant communities in seeking access to cancer and healthcare services. The MCNA highlighted a range of challenges associated with accessing healthcare as an immigrant in Ireland, including:
- Accessibility and affordability.
- Language and communication.
- Inflexibility in the system.
- Long waiting times.
- Continuity of care, particularly for people seeking international protection.
The Needs Assessment highlighted recommendations to improve the experience of immigrant communities in Ireland when accessing health and cancer care services:
- Raise awareness of cancer signs and symptoms, as well as the availability of cancer services.
- Simplify bureaucracy and enhance accessibility.
- Enhance conditions for people in Direct Provision.
- Create more language resources.
- Develop and implement culturally competent and patient-centred care. You can read the full report here.
