Objective: The Florida Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting (MIECHV) program aims to minimize the occurrence of adverse maternal and child health outcomes for mothers deemed at-risk during pregnancy or shortly after childbirth. This study sought to understand the needs of and challenges faced by immigrant families in accessing health care through the perspective of Florida MIECHV home visitors, supervisors, and administrators. Design and Sample: In this exploratory qualitative study, focus groups were held at each of the Florida MIECHV-funded program sites with a total of 81 MIECHV staff to discuss how the program addresses a range of participant needs. Measures: Data were collected through 32 semi-structured focus groups. Transcripts were analyzed using a hybrid approach entailing the development of an a priori codebook and thematic analysis. Results: Staff from eight of the 11 programs described social and physical isolation and economic hardship faced by immigrant families enrolled in their programs, resulting in barriers to needed health care and social services. Conclusions: Home visitors in the Florida MIECHV program served as trusted confidants that helped families navigate social services. Future research should focus on the impact that home visiting has on immigrant health and whether this impact is maintained over time.
Prevalence, determinants, and effects of food insecurity among Middle Eastern and North African migrants and refugees in high-income countries: A systematic review
Issues related to poverty and income inequality in high-income countries have led to food insecurity among some population groups, such as migrants and refugees. While there are some studies on the experience of some migrant groups (and other subpopulations), little is known about food security among Middle Eastern and African migrants and refugees. This systematic…