Traveller gypsies and primary care

Abstract

Traveller gypsies have resided in the British Isles for over 500 years, making them one of our oldest ethnic minorities. They experience widespread prejudice and discrimination from the settled population. In the sphere of health care the marginalization of traveller gypsies has resulted in poor access to services and relative neglect of their health needs. In this paper the health of traveller gypsies is reviewed from the perspective of primary care, and the role of general practitioners in improving health care for this community is discussed.