352 - Round table discussion on migration and health economics: bridging evidence gaps for informed policy and practice

WKS 37: Round Table discussion on Migration and Health Economics: Bridging Evidence Gaps for Informed Policy and Practice, B302 (FCSH), September 5, 2025, 09:00 - 10:00 Rationales and Purpose The field of migration health is increasingly relevant due to globalization, aging European workforce, displacement from crisis regions, and climate-induced migration. Beyond the humanitarian duty to ensure healthcare access for vulnerable groups, questions arise about scope and economic cost of services. Evidence suggests that exclusion from care can be more costly than inclusion, yet data gaps hinder evidence-based policymaking. Stronger collaboration between experts in migration, health, and health economics is needed to strengthen the evidence base. This workshop aims to explore ways to foster research cooperation and identify priority topics for advancing equitable, sustainable healthcare policies. Workshop-Process The session will follow round table format. After short introductions, panelists from health economics, policy, public health, and migration health will share insights from their work. A panel discussion will examine what kind of economic evidence is needed to improve decision-making and health outcomes for migrants and refugees. Participants will then split into groups to discuss: which economic evidence is still missing, how to promote interdisciplinary, international cooperation to obtain it, how to prepare findings for policy and practice. The workshop will conclude with group presentations and wrap-up by the facilitators. Projected Learning Outcomes The workshop highlights the role of health economics in migration health and the need for cross-sector collaboration. Participants will define evidence gaps and how to link findings with policymaking to improve healthcare for migrants and refugees.