Incorporating intersectionality and gender-based analysis in the Vancouver Coastal Health Authority: recommendations to improve immigrant health research, policy, and program development

This paper examines gender differences in an immigrant health report produced by the Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) authority in 2008. Gender is a determinant of health particularly relevant to immigrant health. The immigrant health report illustrates multiple gender differences in access to health services, in migration experiences, and in health status among immigrants in the VCH region. The information in the report suggests that the health needs of female immigrants are not being adequately recognized within existing VCH programs and policies. A review of Canadian literature reveals that current health care policies and services across Canada often fail to recognize existing research on gender differences within the health needs of immigrants. This paper recommends the incorporation of gender-based analysis and intersectionality within immigrant health research, policy, and program development in VCH. If incorporated, these frameworks could enhance the ability of VCH to address the diverse health needs of immigrants.