First and Second Visits

When a refugee, asylee or other eligible parolee comes to Tarrant County, they are usually met by a caseworker from a voluntary agency, such as Catholic Charities, World Relief or ICNA Relief. The caseworker then refers the client to Public Health's Refugee Clinic for health screenings.

Screenings are completed in two separate appointments.
 

At the initial or first appointment, the staff will review the client's eligibility documents and get demographic information. A staff nurse will complete a medical review for the client, which includes but is not limited to:

• review of overseas medical records
• complete health history
• laboratory testing for infectious diseases, pregnancy and other conditions
• vision and hearing screenings
• immunization history
• parasite testing/treatment
  
• nutritional assessment.

At the second appointment the client will meet with a Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant. They will complete a medical evaluation of the client that includes but is not limited to:

• physical exam and mental health assessments
• laboratory results reviewed
• vaccinations to prevent infectious diseases
• recommendations for ongoing health care
• referrals for primary care and/or specialty providers.

The Refugee Clinic will continue to see the client for vaccines, treatment of intestinal parasites and lab follow-ups as required for the client's immigration paperwork.