As States Clash Over Immigration, Hospitals Commit to Caring for All Patients

California’s health care system is taking proactive measures by advising providers not to document patients’ immigration status in medical records or billing. The state further instructs that there is no obligation to assist federal agents conducting arrests within health facilities. In contrast, hospitals in Massachusetts are posting information about patient privacy rights in multiple languages, including Spanish, to ensure accessibility for all.

On the other side of the nation, Florida and Texas are enforcing policies that require health care facilities to inquire about patients’ immigration statuses. These states aim to account for the health care costs incurred by unauthorized immigrants living in the U.S. In stark contrast, many health facilities across the country affirm that they will not deny care based on immigration status. “None of this changes the care patients receive,” said Carrie Williams, spokesperson for the Texas Hospital Association, emphasizing the importance of providing medical attention without fear of immigration repercussions.

Former President Donald Trump, upon returning to the White House, declared a national emergency regarding immigration enforcement. This move included challenging the principle of birthright citizenship and initiating widespread deportations. His administration has rescinded protections that previously limited arrests in sensitive locations like hospitals and schools. This shift has raised concerns among medical professionals about the impact on patient care, particularly for children.

Statistics indicate that approximately 11 million unauthorized immigrants reside in the United States, predominantly in California, Texas, Florida, New York, New Jersey, and Illinois, according to the Pew Research Center. Research from the KFF-Los Angeles Times highlights that nearly half of undocumented immigrants are uninsured, contrasting with the 10% uninsured rate among citizens. Notably, immigrants typically contribute more in health insurance premiums and taxes than they consume in services.

Medical professionals express worry that actions by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) may deter patients from seeking essential care. Pediatrician Minal Giri warns that fear could lead parents to skip vaccinations or necessary treatments for their children. A survey from the University of South Florida revealed that 66% of noncitizens feel more hesitant to seek medical attention after Florida enacted laws mandating inquiries into legal status. This resonates with the experiences of those seeking emergency care.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has proudly labeled his state’s new legislation as the most stringent immigration policy in the country, prompting a special legislative session to bolster Trump’s immigration agenda. Jackson Health System, a crucial health provider in Miami, underscores its commitment to patient confidentiality while complying with legal requirements concerning law enforcement inquiries, emphasizing the importance of protecting patient rights.

In Texas, Governor Greg Abbott has introduced similar regulations mandating that health care costs associated with unauthorized immigrants be documented. Health care facilities are expected to start reporting this data soon. Notably, even Democratic-controlled cities are navigating a complex political landscape. New York City’s Mayor Eric Adams is calling for the removal of undocumented immigrants with felony convictions while also promoting messages of safety for those accessing city hospital services.

California continues to champion protective measures for immigrant patients. Attorney General Rob Bonta released guidance advising health care providers to maintain confidentiality regarding immigration status and to offer information on legal resources. He emphasizes the need to combat fear surrounding immigration enforcement in health care settings.

Legislative actions aimed at protecting patient information are unfolding across various states. New Jersey lawmakers are debating bills that prohibit health care facilities from inquiring about immigration status. In New York, hospitals are preparing for potential ICE engagements and training staff to manage such incidents while prioritizing patient care.

As these debates continue, the healthcare landscape remains a battleground for contrasting approaches to immigration policy, revealing the crucial intersection of health care, legality, and human rights.