The right to healthcare for beneficiaries of international protection is stated in multiple legal and policy documents. These documents collectively ensure that beneficiaries access to healthcare equal to that of nationals, encompassing primary and emergency care, essential treatments and mental health services. They also highlight the fundamental international commitment to non-discriminatory access to healthcare for beneficiaries of international protection.
Refugees lawfully staying in a country are entitled to the same treatment as nationals regarding social security, which includes health protection and medical care (Article 24 of the 1951 Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees).
Everyone has the right to access preventive healthcare and the right to benefit from medical treatment under the conditions established by national laws and practices. This general right includes all individuals within the EU, including beneficiaries of international protection (Article 35 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union).
The Global Compact for Refugees (2018) highlights the importance of providing refugees with equal access to national healthcare systems and services. It calls for the inclusion of refugees in national health plans and the promotion of health services responsive to their needs.
Beneficiaries of international protection are entitled to access healthcare, including physical, mental and sexual and reproductive healthcare, under the same eligibility conditions as nationals of the Member State that granted them protection. This includes both general healthcare services and specialised support.
Individuals with special needs, such as pregnant women, persons with disabilities, survivors of torture, rape or other serious forms of violence, as well as minors who have experienced abuse, neglect, exploitation or armed conflict, must receive adequate and appropriate healthcare, including mental health treatment, when required (Article 32 Qualification Regulation (QR)).
Member States should also provide information on how to access healthcare services and, where applicable, contact points offering support to victims of abuse, exploitation, or ill-treatment (Annex I, point II, paragraph h QR)
The connection between reception and integration in healthcare is vital for addressing the needs of applicants and beneficiaries of international protection. For example, by promoting health literacy from the reception phase, Member States ensure that individuals are better equipped to navigate the health care system and maintain their well-being, fostering smoother integration into the host society. This effort is complemented by ensuring continuity in healthcare from the reception phase to the integration phase, particularly regarding access to preventive services and treatment.
Information provision messages
Inform beneficiaries of international protection about the following.
- Their rights to access healthcare including mental health services under the same conditions as nationals.
- The types of healthcare services available, such as general practitioners/family doctors, hospitals, specialist clinics, dental care, mental health support and emergency services. Include information about special healthcare programmes for specific groups, such as beneficiaries with disabilities or chronic conditions.
- The eligibility criteria for accessing different healthcare services, including necessary documentation (e.g. medical history, medical documents), residence permit, medical insurance (if applicable) and social security number, depending on the national context.
- Which healthcare services are free (e.g. emergency care) and which may require medical insurance, payment or co-payment, depending on the national context.
- The procedures for accessing emergency healthcare services, including national emergency numbers and contacts of emergency services (e.g. hospitals).
- How to get medical insurance or any other necessary documentation required to access healthcare services, where applicable.
- Support services to access healthcare (e.g. non-governmental organisations providing counselling, support, interpretation, financial support) as well as portals where they can find more information on healthcare options and access.
- How to access pharmacy services, including obtaining prescription medications and understanding medication options.
Community health programmes and outreach initiatives that provide additional healthcare support in local communities. - How to navigate the healthcare system, including registering with a general practitioner, making appointments and seeking specialist referrals.
- The contact details of local healthcare service providers (e.g. hospitals, clinics, medical cabinets) and available healthcare emergency services.
- The confidentiality and privacy of their medical information and of the medical act.
- The concept of informed consent, their rights as patients and the importance of understanding medical procedures and treatments.
- Their right to quality healthcare; instruct them on how to provide feedback or file complaints about healthcare services.
Practical tips
- Design and distribute multilingual brochures, leaflets and flyers detailing healthcare rights, available services and the contact information for local healthcare providers (e.g. local hospitals, emergency units, clinics, and doctors’ practices). Include emergency numbers and contacts of support service providers (e.g. non-governmental organisations).
- Partner with healthcare service providers to organise joint information sessions and design educational resources on common health issues, healthy living and disease prevention.
- Organise workshops on specific health topics such as maternal and child health, chronic disease management and mental health support. Organise them in collaboration with specialised service providers.