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The Florida Department of Health works to protect, promote, and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county, and community efforts.

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Refugee Health

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Refugee Health Assessment Program

Welcome to the United States, the State of Florida, and Charlotte County. Health care in Florida may be different from the health care in your native country. This web site includes general information about the services available to you and your family, a summary of the healthcare services that are covered under Florida’s Refugee Health Program, and a description of terms used in the health care system. Florida’s Refugee Health Program is a leader in providing culturally sensitive health services to all refugees in search for a better life and self-sufficiency in America. The health assessment we offer will help identify and treat conditions that could keep you from getting a job and is needed by all children entering public school.

Services

Eligible newly arriving refugees are given the opportunity to receive a health assessment as part of the resettlement process within the first 90 days of entrance in the United States. This health assessment is different and more complete than the one received before entering the country. The health assessment will help ensure that you are free of health problems, which could affect your family and your new community in Florida

  • Who is eligible for services?
  • Do I have to pay for services?
  • What if I don't speak English?
  • What do you need to bring to the Refugee Health Assessment clinic?
  • What services are provided for eligible refugees?

Eligibility for programs of Refugee Services is determined by federal law and includes the following:

  • Refugees: Individuals fleeing persecution who received refugee status before arriving to the United States.
  • Asylees: Individuals fleeing persecution granted asylum once in the United States.
  • Cuban and Haitian Entrants: Nationals of Cuba or Haiti, who have been granted a parole, applied for asylum, or are in removal proceedings.
  • Certified victims of human trafficking.
No, the services you will receive are free of charge.
In the Refugee Health Assessment Program, we have qualified health personnel who speak English, Spanish, and Creole. Our staff is ready to assist you during your visit or over the phone.

To be prepared for your initiation screening, you will need to collect and bring the following items to your appointment:

  • Overseas medical records and X-rays (if you have them)
  • Immunization records (if you have them)
  • Other medical records or information concerning your health
  • Any medicines you are currently taking
  • I-94 card or other immigration documents showing your immigration status and arrival date
  • Medicaid and Social Security cards (if you have received them)
  • A photo identification card

The services that you will receive may include:

  • Height, Weight, and BMI Measurements
  • Blood Pressure
  • Hearing and Vision Exams
  • Dental Screening
  • Lead Screening
  • Complete Blood Count and Metabolic Panel
  • Pregnancy Testing
  • Urinalysis
  • Hepatitis Screening
  • Tuberculosis Testing
  • Ova & Parasite Screening
  • Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) Screening
  • Immunization for children and adults
  • Health education

If a problem is found during your health screening, you will be informed how to get more medical attention.

For more information, please visit: The Florida Department of Health - Refugee Services