A Cross-Comparative Study of Refugee Populations and their Access to Healthcare in the U.S. vs. E.U

The past decade has seen an increase in the number of refugees in the United States and European Union. Of the many resulting problems, this situation has made it difficult for refugees to gain access to healthcare in their host countries. According to the UNHCR’s Refugee Convention, refugee populations are entitled access to similar healthcare services as the residents of their home countries, however, it is unclear to what extent this is being upheld. This study examines refugee populations in the U.S. and Germany and compares refugee access to healthcare services relative to the citizens of their host countries. Two different countries were selected in order to gain a more encompassing perspective of the refugee experience. This is done as the research aims to compare American and German standards of healthcare. Data used includes human rights reports, country demographics, and public records relating to healthcare. Findings suggest that refugee populations are at a significant disadvantage due to distinction from their new society and lack of its procedural knowledge. Additionally, there are multiple policies set in place that lack understanding of the refugee experience and act as factors preventing these populations from seeking help. The unique circumstances observed in the studied populations may provide insight into the experiences of other immigrant populations and provoke international policy adjustments