Abstract
Objective: In 2012, North Carolina ranked in the top ten for refugee resettlement. Newly arrived refugees are at risk for elevated food insecurity, nutrition related health conditions (chronic diseases, malnutrition) and have poor skills navigating the local food environment. The objective of this study was to examine availability of targeted, appropriate and/or translated nutrition and health resources to local providers serving refugees. Design, Setting and Participants: Participants (n1⁄419) included WIC nutritionists, registered dietitians, medical providers, and other regular service providers (ie: resettlement caseworkers). Outcome Measures and Analysis: Semi-structured interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Themes were identified using content analysis. Results:Very few (n1⁄42) reported access to translated nutrition and health educational resources. Some (n1⁄44) reported creating their own resources using online pictures and information. Access to resources was non-existent (n1⁄43) or only ‘‘generalized’’ resources that were either not refugee specific or refugee specific but not related to health or nutrition (n1⁄410). Most training focused on general diversity (n1⁄44) with very few (n1⁄42) receiving training specific to refugee ethnic group(s) health and nutrition concerns. Some providers reported educating themselves on refugee groups cultural background and needs (n1⁄45) with online resources. Conclusions and Implications: Service providers report few targeted, culturally appropriate or translated resources for specific refugee ethnic groups. Lack of resources likely limits the effectiveness of nutrition and health education and counseling. Findings are currently being used for a project titled ‘‘Our Voice, Our Health’’ with a local school for newcomers to: explore nutrition and health behaviors and barriers and develop nutrition and health promoting educational resources. Funding: None.
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