In a troubling trend, hospitals in New York are facing uncertainty as immigrants delay seeking medical care out of fear of immigration enforcement. Dr. Gray Ballinger, a primary care physician in Queens, recounted how a man he treated for high blood pressure waited to seek care due to concerns about immigration enforcement. This man, whose wife is battling stage 4 cancer, is not the only one experiencing anxiety, according to Ballinger.
The fear among immigrants in Queens is palpable, with many individuals experiencing elevated levels of stress and anxiety. Ballinger, who prefers they/them pronouns, highlighted the heartbreaking impact of this climate of fear on the immigrant community served by their hospital, located in one of the most diverse regions in the U.S. Concerns about potential Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids have been circulating, leading to a decrease in patient visits and attendance at various community spaces.
As President Donald Trump continues his efforts to deport immigrants with criminal records, including rescinding a ban on targeting sensitive locations like hospitals, schools, and churches, community leaders have observed a significant decrease in foot traffic in these areas. Immigrant rights advocates have raised concerns about access to essential services being compromised due to these immigration enforcement policies, labeling them as unjust and cruel.
The impact is being felt on the ground, with clinics like Ryan Health in Manhattan reporting a decline in patient visits since the Trump administration took office. Staff at healthcare facilities are grappling with the challenge of balancing patient rights with the potential presence of ICE agents. While guidelines have been issued to hospitals on how to handle ICE visits, the delicate balance between upholding the law and providing essential care to all patients remains a point of contention.
Amid this uncertain landscape, healthcare providers like Ballinger are navigating uncharted territory, unsure of how these policies will impact patients in critical situations. The need to uphold legal requirements while ensuring access to healthcare for all individuals presents a complex ethical dilemma for medical professionals on the frontlines.
“Who has just welcomed a new baby?” Ballinger emphasized the importance of patients feeling safe in their relationship with their physician. Officials from New York city and state gathered at Kings County Hospital to protest a directive impacting public hospitals. State Sen. Zellnor Myrie expressed concerns that the guidance could deter individuals from seeking crucial medical care due to fear. City officials encouraged patients to seek care proactively to avoid serious health issues. The focus remained on ensuring the safety of patients and healthcare workers, with clear steps outlined in the policy to address any involvement of enforcement agents. Advocates and leaders opposed the Trump administration’s decision to allow immigration enforcement in sensitive areas like hospitals and schools.
Seth Chandler noted the challenges hospitals face in balancing immigration enforcement and patient privacy. Compliance with laws such as HIPAA to protect patient information without consent is crucial. Hospital staff must navigate situations where disclosing information to immigration agents may be necessary but could conflict with patient privacy rights. While hospitals aim to uphold patient confidentiality, they may face legal risks in doing so.
Institutions like hospitals and churches should remind individuals of their rights under federal and local laws, emphasizing the importance of seeking necessary medical care regardless of immigration status. One mother, Monica, shared her concerns about navigating daily tasks while living with Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, highlighting the challenges faced by immigrants seeking stability and security.
Trump had previously made attempts to terminate it during his first term in office. He has already made cuts to programs such as temporary protected status. While working at a nonprofit, her children unintentionally overheard her discussing immigration matters. When asked if she was in danger, she assured them, “Not for now,” as they sat in the upper pews of St. Mark’s Episcopal church in Manhattan. Curious, her children inquired about others who might be at risk. She calmly listed the possibilities – being placed in a detention center or sent back to their home country. “But our goal is not to find out,” she explained. “Our goal is to proceed with utmost caution, to prevent such circumstances.” This article was originally published on USA TODAY: ICE, immigration policy confusion impacting hospitals.
