At the Doctors of the World UK's conferences in London and Birmingham last week, healthcare professionals were urged to sign a petition to improve access to healthcare for migrants. Delegates heard Dr. Evan Harris, Vice Chair of the Liberal Democrat Policy Committee, propose concrete and practical ways of influencing health policy. They also heard Sara Collantes from HUMA (Health for Undocumented Migrants and Asylum Seekers network) who gave a thorough overview of access to health for migrants in other European countries.
The conference workshops adressed three key issues: 1) What the White Paper means for migrants; 2) How healthcare professionals can influence policy; and 3) How GPs can help reduce barriers to accessing healthcare. As a result of the day's discussions, Doctors of the World UK compiled a list of suggestions for taking the next steps.