This work package focuses on the collection and analysis of quantitative, primary data regarding the health and health care of asylum seekers. Several cross-sectional studies in different settings will collect reliable epidemiological data about overall health status, chronic conditions, mental health, disability and health-related quality of life. Furthermore, surveys will collect data on utilisation of healthcare services, unmet needs, quality of care and health-related costs.

The questionnaire for the study was developed using existing survey instruments, and subsequently piloted with asylum seekers in Germany. The questionnaire was translated from German into eight languages and will be implemented in reception centres, regional accommodation centres, GP practices and psychosocial centres by trained field teams. For the purpose of data collection a random sample was drawn on the level of the facilities to ensure transferability of results to other regions.

In addition to the direct survey with adult asylum seekers, information on asylum seeking children will also be collected via their parents („proxy-survey“). This means that we will also be able to describe the needs and utilisation patterns in paediatric care and analyse the specific barriers to adequate healthcare services for children.