Health differences between migrant and local children in Chile: analysis of Casen survey 2009-2015

Abstract

Objective: To describe differences in health (i.e. gaps) between international migrant and Chilean population under 18 years of age, based on information from National Surveys of Socioeconomic Characterization (CASEN) 2009 - 2015. Methodology: Observational, secondary study, using repeated analysis of the Socioeconomic Characterization Survey (CASEN) for the years 2009, 2011, 2013 and 2015. Results are organised in three categories: i) sociodemographic characteristics; ii) health and well-being indicators and; iii) access and use of health services. All variables were reported by the head of household. Central tendency measures were used for continuous variables and absolute and relative frequencies for categorical variables. For the analysis, weights were used for population representativeness (svy command), accepting a 95% CI, with the use of the Stata 14 software. Results: There is a gap between migrant and Chilean children in areas of multidimensional poverty and overcrowding, which is worse for the migrant population. On the other hand, immigrant children reported less presence of health problems in the last 3 months in all the years under observation. In addition, the proportion of immigrant children with no healthcare provision is 3 to 14 times higher than the local children. Finally, health services are underused by immigrant children compared to local children. Conclusions: There are differences in health between the international migrant and the Chilean population, with differences negatively affecting the living conditions and health of migrant children. It is urgent to address this gap in order to respond to international commitments regarding children’s universal social and health rights.