Die Gesundheitsversorgung von Menschen ohne legalen Aufenthaltsstatus : papierlos, schutzlos, rechtlos?

Background Undocumented Migrants in Germany belong to the group of persons, who are entitled to medical care under the Asylbewerberleistungsgesetz (AsylbLG). The main goal of the study is to examine the health care problems of undocumented migrants in Germany. In addition, offers of assistance from various information centers are recognized and alternative health concepts are recommended. Methods In a qualitative study semi-standardized interviews with experts (n = 10) and concerned persons (n = 10) were realized in the cities of Hanover and Bremen. In a further step, various previously existing solution models in an international context to health care to this target group were discussed and examined for their transferability to Germany. Results The results of the study show that the use of medical services by the legal requirements in Germany is difficult for people without legal residence status. The fear of discovery deters many concerned persons to take medical services, which often leads inevitably to a chronicity of the disease. There are particular non-governmental organizations and charitable initiatives that ensure the medical care of undocumented migrants. Conclusions The improvement of the health care for undocumented migrants can not be realized by the maintenance of parallel systems. To ensure a sustainable improvement of health care, the integration of this group in the standard care is highly recommended. The introduction of an anonymous health insurance card is a possible solution that could allow regular access to outpatients and stationary medical services and free choice of medical practitioner.