Each month, between 50 and 100 legally sponsored refugees come to Austin to start new lives in the United States. They come from regions such as Burma (Myanmar), Iraq, Eritrea and Somalia. Many have lived in refugee camps for years awaiting an opportunity to gain legal entry into the U.S. In partnership with Austin/Travis County Health and Human Services Department and the Refugee Health Screening Clinic, Lone Star Circle of Care is providing a complete health care home to many of the refugees who settle in Austin. This partnership began in June 2011 after representatives from the Refugee Health Screening Clinic reached out to LSCC about their patients' need for a true health care home.
As the refugees first come to Austin, they receive a point of entry health screening at the Refugee Health Screening Clinic, which is operated by the Austin/Travis County Health and Human Services Department. Each refugee is then scheduled an appointment to establish care with LSCC at ther Ben White Health Clinic location in South Austin. A special time at Ben White Health Clinic is set aside each week for these visits to ensure appropriate interpreters are available. Health care providers and staff at Ben White Health Clinic received special cultural training so that they can interact with the refugees in a culturally sensitive manner, observing the proper customs of interpersonal communication and having some understanding of the refugee families’ medical practices and beliefs.
During their initial visit with LSCC, each patient receives a thorough physical examination, and their medical history is noted and entered into the electronic medical record. Indicated lab tests are performed, and any health concerns the patient has are shared with the physician. The physician works with each patient to outline a primary health care plan, focusing on preventative care and addressing any existing health issues. Interpreters provided by the Refugee Health Screening Clinic accompany the refugees to their first visit at LSCC, and for subsequent visits LSCC contracts with the same interpreters, adding an additional level of care continuity and comfort for both the patients and the health  care team. Once established, the refugees may return to Lone Star Circle of Care as often as needed for the treatment of any ongoing health care needs.
By providing a true health care home for these individuals and families, Lone Star Circle of Care is providing an invaluable resource for them on their journey to becoming independent, productive citizens in our community.
From the Lone Star Circle of Care Insider newsletter