Journal of Health Care for the Poor and Underserved
Volume 23, Issue 2, 2012, Pages 651-665

Provider's perspectives on the impact of immigration and customs enforcement (ICE) activity on immigrant health (Article)

Hacker K.* , Chu J. , Arsenault L. , Marlin R.P.
  • a Harvard Medical School, Institute for Community Health, United States
  • b Harvard Medical School, Research Associate at the Institute for Community Health, United States
  • c Harvard Medical School, Epidemiologist at the Institute for Community Health, United States
  • d Harvard Medical School, Department of Medicine, United States

Abstract

Introduction. Increasing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activities such as raids, detention, and deportation may be affecting the health and well-being of immigrants. This study sought to understand the impact of ICE activities on immigrant health from the perspective of health care providers. Methods. An online survey of primary care and emergency medicine providers was conducted to determine whether ICE activity was negatively affecting immigrant patients. Results. Of 327 providers surveyed, 163 responded (50%) and 156 (48%) met criteria for inclusion. Seventy-five (48%) of them observed negative effects of ICE enforcement on the health or health access of immigrant patients. Forty-three providers gave examples of the impact on emotional health, ability to comply with health care recommendations, and access. Conclusions. Health care providers are witnessing the negative effects of ICE activities on their immigrant patients' psychological and physical health. This should be considered an important determinant of immigrant health. © Meharry Medical College.

Author Keywords

Immigrant health Deportation fear Immigration and Customs Enforcement Providers' perspectives

Index Keywords

information processing Health Personnel law enforcement psychological aspect health care personnel health disparity Health Status Disparities risk human Odds Ratio United States Humans male female Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice Article migration Emigration and Immigration attitude to health Data Collection

Link
https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-84860480490&doi=10.1353%2fhpu.2012.0052&partnerID=40&md5=639f245559e699d93f8254daa2679ad7

DOI: 10.1353/hpu.2012.0052
ISSN: 10492089
Cited by: 29
Original Language: English