Addressing gaps and barriers in healthcare access faced by individuals from CALD, refugee, and homeless populations

There is a critical need for improved service navigation to support better primary healthcare outcomes for CALD, refugee, and homeless communities.

Individuals from CALD and refugee backgrounds often face barriers to accessing healthcare such as a lack of culturally appropriate services, poor health literacy, and challenges related to communication, making it difficult to access and navigate their understanding of healthcare. Similarly, individuals experiencing homelessness often face stigma, mental health challenges, and financial barriers to access the healthcare services they need.

With the right care, coordination and support, people can better navigate healthcare systems by gaining the tools and skills to overcome the challenges they currently face.

The South Western Sydney Primary Health Network (SWSPHN) has commissioned SSI to establish and deliver a Service Navigation Support Service within the South Western Sydney (SWS) region.

The service supports individuals from CALD and refugee populations, and those who are homeless or at risk of homelessness to overcome barriers and challenges to accessing primary healthcare by connecting them with appropriate healthcare services.

People who are eligible for the service include those who:

• meet the specified demographic requirements
• are residents of the South Western Sydney (SWS) region
• are willing to engage in the services offered and participate in the intake process
• provide any necessary documentation or information required for eligibility.

People who are not Australian citizens are also eligible for the service, provided they currently reside within the SWSPHN region. This includes permanent residents and those on temporary visas.

Referrals may be ineligible, if:

• Individuals are receiving other care coordination or navigation services with supplementary services support, or duplicated services.
• Treatment is covered by any other MBS items.
• The service in need requires emergency treatment.
• The individual is seeking support with emergency accommodation.

Eligible participants receive:

We’d love to work with your organisation. Partner with us to bring your expertise to those who need it most.

Whether you’re a community health centre, GP clinic experienced with homeless populations, CALD and refugee community organisation, multicultural group, faith leader, or specialist service provider, we invite you to join us on this initiative.

• Co-host information sessions within your community
• Address the multifaceted needs of individuals and families within the target populations by facilitating smooth client transfers and referrals
• Provide your expertise to contribute to a robust referral network to ensure clients can access holistic support – from a range of services, including:
  • CALD and refugee organisations
  • Refugee and asylum seeker support services
  • Homelessness support and services
  • Community health providers and GPs
  • Community and faith groups

Contact us at clientservices@ssi.org.au for more information.