569 The New Canadians health centre: a community and principle-based refugee health in Canada

Abstract OP 11: Determinants of Health Disease and Interventions 3, B207 (FCSH), September 3, 2025, 17:00 - 18:00 Purpose One of Canada’s major refugee resettlement cities, Edmonton, Alberta, receives thousands of newcomers annually, many of whom arrive with untreated complex health needs. Refugees often face significant barriers to accessing healthcare, including language challenges, unfamiliarity with the healthcare system, and unmet health needs. In response, the New Canadians Health Centre (NCHC) was established in 2021 as a principles-based community health centre providing interdisciplinary, culturally safe primary care to government-assisted refugees during their first two years in Canada. This presentation aims to describe the implementation of the NCHC’s innovative, principles-based model of care and how it addresses the unique health needs of refugee populations. Methods Using a community-engaged, qualitative approach, data were collected through interviews with clients and staff of the NCHC and a review of documents to evaluate the centre’s model. Thematic analysis was used to explore how the principles are guiding the NCHC operations in practice and the unique ways the centre is addressing refugee needs. Results The NCHC model is grounded in principles of social justice, equity, and inclusion. Participants shared that the centre delivers culturally safe interdisciplinary primary healthcare services to refugees, emphasizing the importance of the partnership with the patient, positive patient experiences, and integrating clinical care with social supports. The NCHC’s interdisciplinary team, including physicians, nurses, and health navigators, works collaboratively to address both medical and social determinants of health. Through its collaboration with local community, health, and social serving organizations, the centre provides supportive referrals for additional specialist and allied healthcare services. Conclusion The NCHC offers a promising example of how principles-based healthcare offered in a community setting can improve access and outcomes for refugee populations. This presentation will share lessons learned from the NCHC, offering insights for policymakers, healthcare providers, and communities seeking to establish or strengthen refugee-focused health services.