556 Reducing barriers and enhancing outcomes for refugee children in Canada

Abstract EP2.1, e-Poster Terminal 2, September 3, 2025, 10:35 - 11:00 Background and Purpose Refugee children encounter barriers to healthcare access when resettling in Canada because of cultural disconnects and social determinants of health (SDOH), including language barriers, systemic discrimination and unstable housing. These barriers collectively hinder their ability to navigate the healthcare system. The New Canadians Health Centre (NCHC) reduces barriers by addressing the SDOH of government-assisted refugees through wraparound clinical and social services. This study explores how the NCHC’s integrated culturally safe healthcare model supports access and enhances outcomes for their children. Methods This community-engaged qualitative descriptive study was conducted in partnership with the NCHC. Researchers interviewed 26 refugee parents of children under six years old. Thematic analysis was used to explore their experiences accessing services at the NCHC and the perceived impact on their children’s health outcomes. Results Three main themes emerged: parental experiences accessing healthcare, effective healthcare practices that reduce barriers, and the impact of integrated wraparound services on child health outcomes. Parents reported that NCHC met both clinical and social needs, providing immunizations, mental health support, developmental assessments, and early childhood interventions. Four practices were identified as critical to reducing barriers: communication in the family’s first language, phone-based interpretation, an inclusive and safe environment, and streamlined appointment scheduling. Parents emphasized the value of wraparound services, tailored and holistic care that contributes to their children’s long-term health and well-being. Conclusions The NCHC contributes to reducing barriers to clinical and social services and improves outcomes for refugee children. Parents highlighted how the centre’s model contributes to advancing health equity and delivers high-quality care to vulnerable populations. The findings provide valuable insights for informing healthcare practices and shaping policies that support the unique needs of refugee children in Canada and globally. To effectively improve healthcare access, a holistic approach that combines clinical care with SDOH is needed.