Health policies for migrant populations in three European countries: England; Italy and Spain

ObjectivesThe study aimed at providing a comparative analysis of health policies for immigrant populations in three European countries.MethodsA descriptive comparative study of health policies for immigrant population was conducted through content analysis. England, Italy and Spain were selected because they have similar national health systems and different histories of immigration. For each country national or regional plans that included health policies for immigrants or ethnic minorities were selected. The analysis was conducted along the following dimensions: policy objectives, strategies, and evaluation of results. Subsequently, strategies were categorized according to the field of action.ResultsImprovements in immigrants’ health are the ultimate objectives of these policies but they differ in emphasis and strategies. Main strategies relate to: addressing specific health issues; access to healthcare – information, communication, service supply and administrative proceedings; and improving quality of healthcare provision – services adaptation, professionals training and health needs’ analysis. Only in England are some results of policy evaluation available.ConclusionsDifferent models of immigrant integration in receiving countries seem to condition the health policy approach. England and Spain propose actions to address immigrants’ healthcare needs, while in Italy the development of specific strategies is limited.