Qualitative evaluation of a social inclusion program for Karen and Karenni refugees in Victoria, Australia

Abstract

Background Karen and Karenni refugees from Myanmar face significant barriers to access and engagement in health services due to high levels of vulnerability and disability. Social isolation and limited access to resources have been identified as important barriers to health engagement; however, research on social inclusion programs, which might assist in overcoming poor access, have been limited in number and by methodological constraints This study examined the impact of a social inclusion program on the health-seeking behaviours of Karen and Karenni refugees in Melbourne’s western suburbs, by identifying the key enablers and barriers to improving health engagement. Methods Semi-structured..