The role and position of intercultural workers in the provision of health care to refugees and migrants in the Czech Republic.

Abstract

Intercultural workers (also intercultural mediators, community interpreters) play a key role in overcoming language and cultural barriers between migrants and the healthcare systems of host countries. Based on international practice, the World Health Organization (WHO) strongly recommends the integration of intercultural mediators into healthcare systems throughout the European region to ensure equity, quality and sustainability of the healthcare system in an intercultural and multicultural environment. This article analyzes the emergence and status of the intercultural worker profession and its role in the process of providing various types of healthcare to refugees and migrants in the Czech Republic, focusing on legal, social and health aspects. It also describes the key challenges of integrating intercultural work into the existing healthcare and social system and suggests practical recommendations for improving cooperation between healthcare institutions and these key actors.