3 "S" Solutions for Refugee Healthcare

Climate change, natural disasters and political instability threaten our already booming global population. This has resulted in the world currently experiencing the largest recorded population of displaced individuals (65.3 million forcibly displaced) (UNHCR.) Shifting populations and mass movement, results in a lack of sustainable infrastructure, social tension and consequent health challenges.  In order to address these issues through the most efficient strategy it is vital to identify these problems at the “source” rather than “downstream.”

Firstly, terminology relating to displaced persons is extremely important, especially with terms commonly used interchangeably within the media:  

1. Refugee- Persons fleeing armed conflict or persecution. Refugees are protected in international law and must have their basic needs met by the country they are residing in. Refugees cannot be made to  return to situations where their lives and freedom are under threat.
2. Migrant- Persons choosing to move not because of direct persecution or death. Examples include moving to improve their living standards, or to seek  education. Countries have their own internal agreements regarding immigration laws and processes.

The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR)

This poster will identify three key focuses for optimising wellbeing within such dynamic, fluctuating populations: Shelter, Sanitation, Screening.  

Shelter: A place giving temporary protection from bad weather or danger.

Sanitation: Conditions relating to public health, especially the provision of clean drinking water and adequate sewage disposal.

Screening: The use of simple tests across an apparently healthy population in order to identify individuals who have risk factors or early stages of disease, but do not yet have symptoms.

The three “S” approach identifies simple measures to reduce disease burdens within displaced communities.