Health Care and U.S. Immigration Enforcement: What Providers Need to Know
Publication Date: March 2025
This guide, produced by Physicians for Human Rights (PHR) and the National Immigration Law Center (NILC) with contributions from Dr. Altaf Saadi and other experts, helps U.S. health care providers uphold patient rights amid heightened immigration enforcement. Following the 2025 rescission of “protected areas” policies, hospitals and clinics are no longer shielded from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) or Customs and Border Protection (CBP) actions, increasing fears that deter immigrants from seeking care. The guide outlines key legal protections—HIPAA privacy, EMTALA emergency access, and constitutional safeguards—and emphasizes institutional preparedness, staff training, and patient reassurance. It provides practical guidance on responding to enforcement encounters, verifying warrants, and maintaining confidentiality. PHR and NILC urge providers to reaffirm care for all patients regardless of status and to implement strong privacy and access policies supported by “Know Your Rights” resources.
To access the guide click here.