Motivated by the desire to attain improved effective care for and response to complex refugee/immigrant wellness needs, this conference will mobilize and harness the diverse knowledge, capacities, and services of various stakeholders, interested to learn from and with those who interface with refugee and immigrant communities in the United States. The conference will provide a platform for improved skills attainment, sharing, and captivation of advanced research and practices within the prism of Human Wellness, being interchangeably influenced by local and global factors. Over 70,000 refugees have come to Wisconsin from all over the world. Over the years Wisconsin has welcomed many peoples from Southeast Asia, the former Soviet Union and the former Yugoslavia. The newest come from Somalia, former Burma (Karen, Chin and Rohyngia), Iraq, and Bhutan. Ninety-five percent (66,500) of all the refugees who have settled in Wisconsin have achieved economic self-sufficiency and are working and contributing to our communities. And almost all are now U.S. citizens [Wisconsin Department of Children and Families).

The task of helping refugees adjust to Wisconsin can be daunting: acquiring housing,coordinating health services, English language education, assisting with school enrollment, job placement, and much more. All the while noting that certain refugee groups disproportionately include underserved children and adults with mental health needs, chronic co-morbid conditions, psychosocial stressors, relocation, and resettlement needs. Regional health systems have also had to adapt to these new cultures as they assist the refugees and new immigrants with their primary health needs and, at times, more challenging health needs such as complex post-traumatic stress disorders, poorly controlled chronic medical problems, psychological adjustment needs, work and life stressors.

This conferenced is for educators, social service agencies, community-based organizations, faith based groups, medical professionals, and any community member who works with or has interest in supporting refugee and immigrant communities. All are welcome here.

ACCME Accreditation Statement:
The Medical College of Wisconsin is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education to provide continuing medical education for physicians.

AMA Credit Designation Statement:
The Medical College of Wisconsin designates this live activity for a maximum of 12.25 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

Hours of Participation for Allied Health Care Professionals:
The Medical College of Wisconsin designates this activity for up to 12.25 hours of participation for continuing education for allied health professionals.