This paper analyzes migrant access to health care by comparing hospitalizations of native and immigrant population with respect the Tuscany Region (Italy). In the analyses, a critical gap both for legal and undocumented migrant population is highlighted. Indeed, we found some key differences between the migrant and native populations related to the use of specific hospital services in Tuscany and, indirectly, of community and primary care services. Moreover, especially for undocumented migrants, hospitals seem to be the only point of access to the health-care system for migrant populations. The results suggest that the Italian health-care system is unable to ensure an equitable access to health services. In this context, maternity care could be a key point of access to the welfare system that allows participation in the health system not only for mothers but also for all migrant family members. Copyright © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Primary care Integration Migrant health performance health equity

maternal care immigrant hospitalization primary medical care health equity human female welfare Tuscany hospital sector integrated approach hospital service health services Article health care adult mother equity Italy health care system primary health care public health immigrant population