Supporting Refugee Families Through MTM’s Mobile Integrated Health Solutions
Navigating a new life in a foreign country can be incredibly challenging, especially when language barriers and financial concerns create additional stress. MTM’s Mobile Integrated Health (MIH) solutions are designed to bridge gaps like these, providing crucial support and resources to those who need it most. A recent example of this is our work with a refugee family from Afghanistan, who arrived in the United States in April and have faced numerous obstacles as they adjust to their new life.
The family consists of young parents with two children under the age of two. Neither parent speaks English, and the mother, who was a teacher in Afghanistan, expressed feelings of loneliness and isolation. She shared that it was a relief to find someone who genuinely cared and was willing to help them navigate their new environment. This connection was made possible through the dedication of an MTM Community Health Worker (CHW), who utilized MTM’s interpreter service to communicate with the family in their native language, Darsi.
One of the immediate challenges the family faced was the mother’s struggle with postpartum depression. The father, who works the night shift at Walmart, was also concerned about getting the family to and from medical appointments, given their limited resources. Understanding the gravity of their situation, the CHW quickly arranged transportation through an MTM provider located just three minutes from their home, alleviating the father’s worries about accessing essential healthcare services.
Financial strain was another significant concern, as the family was grappling with high rent costs and had borrowed money to make ends meet. Recognizing this, the CHW, in collaboration with a Nurse Manager from MTM’s health plan client, began working to connect the family with additional programs and services that could support their financial stability and long-term success.
Additionally, the CHW and MTM’s transportation provider found a tailored solution to accommodate the family when all four members needed to attend appointments together. This comprehensive approach not only ensured the family’s immediate needs were met, but also laid the foundation for their ongoing well-being and integration into their new community.
Through the compassionate efforts of our team and the resources provided by MTM’s MIH solutions, this family is now better equipped to face the challenges of their new life in the United States. By addressing their healthcare needs, easing their financial burdens, and offering consistent support, MTM is proud to play a role in improving the health outcomes and overall quality of life for Medicaid members like this Afghan refugee family.
