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A narrative literature review on the health of migrant farm worker children in the USA

Ann Connor (Assistant Professor, based at School of Nursing, Emory University, Atlanta, USA.)
Laura Page Layne (Director of Health Services, based at School of Nursing, Emory University, Atlanta, USA)
Laura Ellis Hilb (Student, based at School of Nursing, Emory University, Atlanta, USA)

International Journal of Migration, Health and Social Care

ISSN: 1747-9894

Article publication date: 12 March 2014

263

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a comprehensive narrative review of the literature on migrant farm worker child and adolescent health. It highlights current health issues and suggests methods to improve research and clinical practices with this underserved and vulnerable population.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology for this narrative review included a search of articles published between 2000 and 2012. From the primary search, 76 articles met the search criteria. A secondary search revealed three additional articles.

Findings

The various methodologies used in the current literature have limited rigorous analysis of the health of pediatric migrant populations. The findings highlight the complex factors that influence migrant pediatric health. Despite the many challenges migrant farm worker children and their families face, they exhibit enormous resilience and strengths that may help counterbalance these challenges. Study categories that emerged from the analysis include health perspectives and behaviors, occupational health, access to care, utilization and satisfaction with health services, health outcomes and health disparities, and oral health. This review provides a strong foundation from which to work toward improving migrant pediatric health.

Originality/value

This paper provides an original review of the unique health needs and the complex factors influencing the health of migrant farm worker children and adolescents. This will be of value to clinicians and researchers since migrant farm worker families are part of communities across the country. It offers public health professionals insight into services and programs that can improve the health and well-being of children, families, and communities.

Keywords

Citation

Connor, A., Page Layne, L. and Ellis Hilb, L. (2014), "A narrative literature review on the health of migrant farm worker children in the USA", International Journal of Migration, Health and Social Care, Vol. 10 No. 1, pp. 1-17. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJMHSC-07-2013-0019

Publisher

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Emerald Group Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2014, Emerald Group Publishing Limited

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