Submitted by Dessi on Sat, 07/10/2021 - 14:19 A serious challenge for refugees and asylum seekers is to get oriented and acquainted with the health system in the host country. There is often a huge difference between the ways in which the health systems in the two countries work, which leads to frequent confusion and an increased need for basic information about the system here, how it works, how and what has to be paid, what is the connection with work commitments, etc. In response to this need, we organize informative meetings with our beneficiaries, through which we explain how and why help is sought, for emergencies or by referral. Such meetings are particularly valuable, as most refugees experience severe stress and show increased symptoms of health problems on arrival. The period after their arrival is burdened with additional worries, because the preparation of their documents takes technical time, during which they are kept uninsured, which requires organizations like ours to seek additional funds to cover emergency examinations and tests. The planned activities to improve access to health services are part of the project "Comprehensive integration support for legally residing third-country nationals". The project is implemented jointly with the team of Caritas Sofia and also includes activities related to education, employment and integration into society.