Immigration increases diversity of the population

The diversity of the population in England expands through immigration, driving health inequalities in certain communities. Religious, cultural and biological factors make certain ethnic groups more susceptible to particular illness and disease, which, combined with reduced uptake of healthcare services, leads to poorer health outcomes in multicultural communities. Skills gaps emerge around the knowledge and understanding of different ethnic backgrounds, and the movement of people across national and international boundaries facilitates the rapid transmission of disease, placing greater demands on the health system.

Proposed workforce impact

• Poorer health outcomes for minority ethnic populations.
• Skills gaps develop in urban areas.
• Increased emphasis on social skills in the workforce.

Sources or references

• http://www.patient.co.uk/doctor/Ethnic-Matters.htm

Additional research questions

• Does pharmacist training and education sufficiently address the challenges posed by multiculturalism?
• What policy initiatives are required to address health inequalities?

Some of the information in this section is provided by stakeholders and expert groups, and does not necessarily represent the views of the CfWI.