Asylum Seekers Centre

Professor Mark Harris is a medical doctor who has been treating asylum seekers at our clinic since 2000 as part of the ASC health care program

 

Why did you get involved with ASC?
Prior to becoming involved with ASC I had worked in a variety of Asian and Pacific countries. I had also done some work with GPs in South West Sydney focused on refugee health (prior to the establishment of the Refugee Health Service at Liverpool). 

 

In 2000 the Asylum Seekers Centre had a part time nurse but no GP working from the centre.  I was moving from Fairfield to Kensington for my work at UNSW and thus was looking for somewhere to continue some limited clinical work. So I started working out of my doctors bag and with the great support of the other centre staff.


What have you found meaningful about your volunteer experience with us?
I have been concerned that Australia does not feel obligated to provide primary health care for all asylum seekers.  I regard basic primary health care as a right for all people. This is something the World Health Organisation encompassed in its "Health for All" aspiration. 

 

As well as advocating for a change to the system, I think it is important to try to do something yourself.  Obviously this is only a "band-aid" solution (if you'll pardon the pun) but I think it does make a contribution.

 
What have you gained from the experience?
I have gained an understanding of the refugee experience both overseas and in Australia.  I feel quite privileged to have had the opportunity to meet many refugees and asylum seekers. Many have been through things that I can barely understand and I admire their resilience. 

 

I have also been heartened by the generosity of the many other health professionals (including GP, allied health  and medical specialist colleagues) and some organisations (such as St Vincents and Mater Hospital and Douglas Hanly Moir) in being willing to accept referrals and provide care for refugees at no cost.  This has contrasted with the rigidity of some parts of the health and immigration systems.