The IMIRA (Improving Health Monitoring in Migrant Populations) - project in Germany – Lessons learned und implications for health monitoring

Abstract

Abstract Background A quarter of the population living in Germany are people with a migration background (PMB). In this context, the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) has the task of designing the health monitoring system that has been established in recent years in such a way that PMB are adequately taken into account in statements on the health situation of the German population. Methods The Improving Health Monitoring in Migrant Populations (IMIRA) project was initiated at the end of 2016 with the aim of improving the inclusion of MMH in health monitoring. Literature research, expert interviews and feasibility studies were carried out to identify strategies for access routes, recruitment measures, the dismantling of language barriers and the inclusion of MHH, which are incorporated into the concept of Monitoring 4.0, the further development of RKI health monitoring. Results In order to sustainably improve the accessibility of PMB in RKI health monitoring, a sequential study design with multilingual administration modes is planned within interview surveys. Personal contact through home visits and face-to-face interviews as well as the use of interpretation are essential to increase the willingness to participate. Strengthening the diversity sensitivity of the staff, as well as anti-discriminatory reporting, and promoting the participation of PMB and practitioners are additional components. Conclusions The IMIRA project has led to important findings that will be implemented in the long-term health monitoring of the RKI. The improved accessibility of PMB for health surveys enables a reflected presentation of the health situation of PMB, which does justice to the heterogeneity of the population living in Germany. Main messages • In order to include PMB sustainably in health monitoring we need to, develop dynamic study designs, bridge language gaps, establish personal contact, increase diversity sensibility and encourage participation of PMB in development of research processes.