Medical Care for Refugees 

Have you recently resettled in Wisconsin and need assistance with you physical or mental health? Wisconsin has a variety of programs to support you! You may be eligible for programming if you are a: 

  • Refugee;
  • Special Immigration Visa holder (SIV)
  • Asylee;
  • Cuban-Haitian entrant;
  • Certain Amerasian;
  • Victim of trafficking; or
  • Any other group eligible for refugee benefits under federal law

Refugee Health Screening Program

Upon arriving in the United States, you should complete a medical screening, which is a thorough physical exam completed by a medical professional. The purpose of the screening is to:

  • Follow up on any medical issues found in your overseas medical screening.
  • Prevent the spread of diseases that can be passed from person to person.
  • Find and treat health conditions that could keep you from successfully resettling.
  • Connect you with a doctor for ongoing health care.

To learn more about screenings, please visit the Department of Health Services Refugee Health Program: Health Screening webpage.

How can I schedule a screening?

Your local resettlement agency can help you schedule a screening with a clinic in your area. 

Refugee Medical Assistance (RMA) Program

The Refugee Medical Assistance (RMA) program provides health insurance and medical assistance during your first eight months in the United States. This will help you access and afford physical, mental, and oral care. 

How do I apply?

Your local resettlement agency can help you apply for all programs in which you are eligible. You can also apply directly at a local Wisconsin Works office.

What if I need medical assistance after the RMA program? 

If you are low-income you may qualify for BadgerCare Plus, a program that provides health insurance benefits. To learn more about this program and apply, please visit the BadgerCare Plus webpage.