THE EFFECTS OF IMMIGRATION ON THE HEALTH-CARE SYSTEM OF SOUTH FLORIDA

The paper reports results of a study commissioned by the South Florida Hospital Association for the purpose of effecting positive changes in resource allocation for immigrant health care, and in the ability of health care providers to deliver efficient and effective care in a culturally appropriate manner. The history of immigration to South Florida over the past five decades is discussed. The major health care needs of immigrants from the Caribbean and Latin and Central America are presented, and the evolution of health care facilities to meet those needs is discussed. Twenty health care providers representing a cross-section of facilities providing immigrant health care, and 201 immigrants receiving care in community-based and hospital clinics were interviewed regarding health care needs. Multiple concerns were cited by immigrants about language barriers, negative staff attitudes, long waiting periods, transportation, and organizational "red tape." Eight major recommendations are made to address the concerns of the immigrants, the needs as perceived by the health care providers, and issues raised in the literature.