Healthcare for All
The Migrant Action Centre recognizes that access to healthcare is a basic human right, and that every person, regardless of their immigration status, deserves to have access to essential medical services in order to maintain their health and well-being.
In Newfoundland and Labrador, many migrants, including undocumented migrants, face significant barriers to accessing healthcare services, including lack of coverage, prohibitive costs, and a lack of understanding of the healthcare system. This is a heart-wrenching reality that must change.
It is unacceptable that people in our community are denied access to healthcare simply because of their immigration status. We cannot stand idly by while our friends and neighbours suffer without access to the medical care they need. We cannot turn a blind eye to the pain and suffering of those who call Newfoundland and Labrador home.
Therefore, we call on the government of Newfoundland and Labrador to implement a comprehensive medical care plan that provides universal access to healthcare services for all residents, regardless of their immigration status, including undocumented migrants. This plan should include
Affordable and accessible healthcare services: The government must ensure that all residents of the province have access to quality and affordable healthcare services, regardless of their immigration status. This includes access to primary care, specialist care, mental health services, and emergency care.
Coverage for all migrants: All migrants, including undocumented migrants, should be eligible for healthcare coverage, regardless of their immigration status. This includes temporary workers, international students, and those seeking asylum.
Simplified access to healthcare services: The government must take steps to simplify the process of accessing healthcare services for migrants, including undocumented migrants. This includes providing clear information about the healthcare system and the services available, as well as ensuring that migrants are able to access services without fear of discrimination or harassment.
Improved language access: Migrants, including undocumented migrants, should have access to healthcare services in their preferred language. The government must ensure that healthcare providers have access to interpretation and translation services, and that information about healthcare services is available in multiple languages.
Collaboration with community organizations: The government must work with community organizations, including the Migrant Action Centre, to ensure that migrants, including undocumented migrants, have access to the support and resources they need to navigate the healthcare system.
We believe that access to healthcare is a basic human right, and that everyone, regardless of their immigration status, deserves to have access to essential medical services. The Migrant Action Centre is committed to working with the government of Newfoundland and Labrador to ensure that this policy is implemented, and that all residents of the province, including undocumented migrants, have access to quality and affordable healthcare. We will not rest until every person in our community has access to the medical care they need to live a healthy and fulfilling life.
