Wyoming Migrant Health Program Information
MIGRANT HEALTH PROGRAM |
| The program recognizes the need for health care management among this predominantly Hispanic population as well as the economic, language, and cultural barriers that prevent them from accessing the needed services. While the program attempts to meet the primary medical needs of all eligible farm workers and their families, it is important to remember that it is not an insurance program or a replacement for existing public health care services. |  |
Since the program serves migrant and seasonal
farm workers whose primary source of income must come from agricultural
work, the target population changes each season. Although the program
runs year round, the vast majority of the patients are seen during
the summer months, which coincide with the peak of agricultural
activity in the region. The initial stages of program development
every summer involve publicizing the program and locating potential
clients. This is accomplished through conducting health fairs, making
public announcements, or contacting farm workers and growers alike.
Bilingual outreach workers, who receive training in triaging and
cultural competency from qualified professionals, are critical part
of the process. The outreach workers serve as liaison between the
clients and the health care providers and it is, therefore, essential
that they establish rapport with them.
Basic health care services are provided by mid-level medical
professionals, who conduct clinics in Powell, Worland, and Basin
or at the public health offices in the four-county area, who
are also contracted to provide services. When the mid-level
practitioners deem that the problem at hand necessitates the services
of medical
professionals, then a voucher system is utilized to refer the
patients
to local physicians, dentists, optometrists, hospitals, and pharmacies.
The program collaborates with all medical providers who are willing
to serve this population.
 |
Due to the nature of the program
and the limited financial resources available, the Migrant
Health Program does not pay for more complicated medical
procedures and extensive treatments. It does not pay for hospitalization or for many types of specialists. If a health care provider orders a follow-up, however, efforts are made to ensure that the client does indeed show up for appointments and carry out the prescribed course of treatment. |
In addition, case management involves assistance for other immediate
problem our clients face by tapping into other available community
resources.
The Migrant Health Program truly is a result of the collaborative
efforts of the administrative staff , the dedication of the outreach
workers, the caring and commitment of medical providers, and
the time and support of community leaders.
For more information please contact:
wyhc@wyhc.org
| Cathy Florian Project Director Wyoming Migrant Health Program Phone: (877) 754-5252 Fax: (307) 754-8484 |
or | Lucy Williamson Executive Director Wyoming Health Council Phone: (800) 584-9192 Fax: (307) 632-3611 |
Copyright ©2004 Wyoming Health Council. All rights reserved.
