Implementation of national recommendations for the care of Ukrainian refugee children in Switzerland: a survey of primary care pediatricians

Objectives This study aimed to evaluate the implementation of specific recommendations for providers caring for pediatric Ukrainian refugees new to Switzerland, including the care provided and the challenges faced. Methods Pediatricians were invited via newsletters to participate in an online questionnaire. Results A total of 111 primary care pediatricians (PCPs) were eligible for participation. Of these, 91% reported providing care for Ukrainian refugees. The vast majority (88.6%) were aware of the mentioned recommendations. The reported care included treating acute conditions (94.8%), ensuring vaccination coverage (89.7%), and performing new-arrival check-ups regardless of age (60.8%). The psychosocial situation of the child (67.0%) and the mental wellbeing of both the child and main caregiver (47.4%) were assessed, and preventive information (29.9%) was provided to a lesser extent. Tuberculosis risks were discussed or screened for by 73.2% of the participants, HIV by 58.3%, and Hepatitis C by 57.3%. The main challenges faced included lack of time (77.9%), language barriers (81.1%), organizing mental health care (65.5.%), different health(care) perceptions (65.6%), demanding attitudes (68.4%), and refusals of check-ups (30.8%) and vaccines (38.6%). Conclusion Despite high levels of awareness of the recommendations, their implementation varied. Preventive care and mental health support require improvement. Care-enabling policies have been identified and are warranted.