Migration and Health

Addressing health issues and concerns surrounding the migration process has been a keystone of IOM’s work since 1951. From health assessments to building and strengthening capacities of national health systems, IOM’s migration health response underscores its unique and holistic approach to migration management.

IOM's experience has shown that failing to target the health of migrants has severe consequences for the well-being of migrants as well as their communities of origin, transit and destination.

Vulnerable migrants with medical needs require more preparation for planning their travel and it is paramount that their return and first days/weeks in Georgia proceed smoothly. Provision of medical information is very important for the returning citizens, to increase their awareness of the availability of needed medical services, costs and contacts in the country. 

The number of AVRR beneficiaries with health-related travel requirements and post arrival follow-up needs is on the rise. In many cases IOM Georgia counselors contact the beneficiaries directly in host countries to specify the details and provide information tailored to individual needs of migrants. 

IOM Georgia provides assistance from the pre-departure phase and continues post-arrival assistance including referrals to clinics and the State Reintegration Programme, direct payments for various medical procedures, visits and lab tests, purchase of prescribed medication. 

Since 2017 IOM Georgia has provided feedback on 890 medical information requests from Switzerland, Austria, Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands and has assisted 906 families with medical follow-ups.