Undocumented immigrants are less likely than other residents of the United States to have health insurance. Their access to publicly funded health programs has become increasingly limited since the passage of welfare reform in 1996 and varies from state to state. This is reflected in less preventive health care, including prenatal care, and poorer health outcomes, including those associated with childbirth. The U.S.-born children of undocumented immigrant women are U.S. citizens, and the nation's public health is enhanced by assuring that all who reside in the United States, including undocumented immigrants, have access to quality health care. © 2008 by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

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