Western University experts available to discuss unique physical and mental health needs of Syrian refugees

With the revised Canadian government announcement that 25,000 Syrian refugees will enter Canada by the end of February 2016, the health care system will need to accommodate the unique challenges and needs of this population.

Western University’s Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry has experts with research and frontline experience related to refugees and newcomers. They are available to comment on what these populations may face once they enter Canada, and how the health care system can accommodate their physical and mental health requirements.

Kelly Anderson, PhD, assistant professor, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics

Areas of Expertise: Mental health, social determinants of health and health services use, risk of psychotic disorder in refugee and immigrant populations

Dr. Bhooma Bhayana, adjunct professor, Department of Family Medicine, family physician

Areas of Expertise: Family medicine, primary care of refugees and marginalized populations, implemented the Newcomer Health Project (initial screening and triage clinic for refugees by volunteer physicians and medical students)

Lloy Wylie, PhD, assistant professor, Schulich Interfaculty Program in Public Health, Departments of Psychiatry and Pathology

Areas of Expertise: Mental health services and health systems transformation for refugee clients, social determinants of health, health care access for socially excluded populations, health policy

MEDIA CONTACT: Tristan Joseph, Media Relations Officer, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, t. 519.661.2111 ext. 80387, c. 519.777.1573, tristan.joseph@schulich.uwo.ca

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ABOUT THE SCHULICH SCHOOL OF MEDICINE & DENTISTRY

The Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry at Western University is one of Canada’s preeminent medical and dental schools. Established in 1881, it was one of the founding schools of Western University and is known for being the birthplace of family medicine in Canada. For more than 130 years, the School has demonstrated a commitment to academic excellence and a passion for scientific discovery.

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