Refugee Health

On most months, refugees arrive in the Illawarra from countries including Burundi, Congo, Iraq and Burma.

Newly arrived refugees are presenting to health services with a range of complex health problems reflecting the epidemiology of their countries of origin and of refugee camps in transit countries. Refugee children arriving in Australia may have high rates of infectious diseases, incomplete immunisation, growth and nutrition problems; poor dental health & psychological health problems.

The Illawarra and Shoalhaven uses a model of GP-managed care for refugees.  Local guidelines have been developed by Dr Craig Boutlis, Wollongong Hospital.  A small but committed team of local GPs work with organisations including Wollongong Hospital, Sydney Children's Hospital, SESIAHS Division of Population Health Public Health and Multicultural Health units, Australian College of Languages (the placement agency) and the NSW Refugee Health Service.   This collaborative approach is being continually refined to ensure that refugee children and families receive timely and effective assessment, pathology testing, immunization, treatment and follow up. 

Refugee Health Assessments

Information on claiming

Medicare items 701, 703, 705 and 707 support GPs to undertake health assessments on refugees and other humanitarian entrants, within 12 months of arrival in Australia, or within 12 months of visa grant.

If you require further information about Refugee Health, please contact the Practice Support Team at 4220 7600.