Refugee Health Program

Refugee Health Screening

The U.S. Department of State requires that refugees receive a health screening within 30 days of arrival in the U.S. or within 7 days of arrival for HIV+ refugees. The RI Refugee Health Screening Form is used to screen refugees.

What is the purpose of the health screening?
Many of the refugees who settle in Rhode Island fled violent circumstances in their countries of origin and have been living in refugee camps for several years. In the camps, there is often limited access to healthcare. The purpose of the domestic health screening is to verify the overseas health screening results and identify any health condition that poses a threat to the individual’s or public’s health.

What is included in the health screening?
Health screenings include immunizations, tuberculosis and other screenings, a women’s health check, a physical exam, medical history, and referrals for other services.

Who performs the screening?
In Rhode Island, VOLAGS schedule domestic refugee health screening appointments and take responsibility for ensuring that screening appointments are made within the appropriate time frame. Medical providers at Rhode Island Hospital, (including Hasbro Children’s Hospital), Miriam Hospital, Women and Infants Hospital; St. Joseph’s hospital for Specialty Care, and several Community Health Centers perform health screenings.

What form should be used to screen refugees?
The RI Refugee Health Screening Form should be used to screen refugees.

What happens after the screening?
Following the initial screening, refugees should receive ongoing primary care and referrals for other necessary services.