Refugees often come from areas of conflict or regions with poor public health infrastructure and are at risk for malnutrition and infectious diseases. Many have suffered from physical or emotional trauma and loss. On arrival to Canada they often experience cultural, language and financial barriers. The complex issues in this population can be challenging to health care providers.

This conference will create a forum by which health care professionals can share information and experiences. The organizers envision increased advocacy and enhanced evidence-based health policies for refugee populations as a result of this initiative.

This clinical conference may be of special interest to primary care physicians, specialists, nurses and nurse practitioners and other allied health professionals, as well as trainees.

The objectives of this conference include:

• closing clinical gaps in refugee health
• capacity building in refugee health
• networking and information exchange
• education of future health care providers
• building partnerships with key refugee stakeholders
• building advocacy for refugee and uninsured populations

Program topics include:

• overview of refugee process
• tropical diseases
• HIV, TB and other infectious diseases
• refugee screening
• mental health issues including depression and PTSD
• pediatrics
• immunization
• advocacy.

Presentation formats will include plenary sessions, small group sessions, workshops, and networking meetings.

Presenters will include Canadian and world-renowned experts in refugee health, as well University of Toronto faculty representing various health disciplines.