INTRODUCTION

High rates of immigration in recent years in the United Kingdom presents service design and delivery challenges to primary care. At a time when resources are stretched, services must be both efficient and equitable for patients. Migrants are often healthy on arrival but some groups, such as refugees and asylum seekers, may have many healthcare needs. This study sought to explore how primary care is managing demand on its services by new migrants and how it addresses need in provision.

APPROACH

The research was exploratory and formative. It looked at the services delivered in primary care organisations. The study took place between November 2015 and March 2016. Its methods were: Survey and contact form: Non-probability sample of GPs, other health professionals, practice managers and third sector providers who had served new migrant populations in the last five years (n=70); Responses were sifted for contact details and selected for case studies. In-depth case studies: Documentary analysis and in-depth interviews and focus groups with eight case study primary care organisations.

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