Caring for the Unseen: Pregnant Migrants' Fight for Healthcare in Canada

Pregnant migrants in Canada who lack insurance face a tough battle. They struggle to get the medical care they need. This is not just about money. It is also about the system and cultural barriers. These issues can hurt their health and emotional well-being. It can also affect their families. Many people agree on the best ways to care for pregnant women. Yet, uninsured migrants often miss out on this care. This raises serious questions about fairness. It is wrong to deny them care that is paid for by the public. In Montreal, researchers talked to 10 uninsured migrant women. They wanted to find out what helped these women get the care they needed. They found that healthcare workers sometimes go above and beyond. They volunteer their time or lower their fees. This can make a big difference. The women themselves also play a big role. Some are very resourceful and know how to navigate the system. Their background and social status can also help or hinder their access to care. This puts the burden on the individual, which is not fair. It is a problem that needs fixing. Social workers have a big part to play in this. They can help address the needs of uninsured migrant women. They can push for changes in the system. This way, all pregnant women can get the care they need. It is important to think about why these barriers exist. It is not just about the women. It is about the system that fails to support them. Everyone deserves fair access to healthcare, especially when they are pregnant. This is a basic human right.