Medical Care for Undocumented Immigrants: National and International Issues

• Authors: Teresa Beck, Emory University; Thien-Kim Le, Emory University; Queen Henry-Okafor, Vanderbilt University; Megha Shah, Emory University
• Journal Title: Physician Assistant Clinics
• Volume: Volume 4, Number 1
• Publisher: Elsevier Inc. | 2018-11-16, Pages 33-45
• Type of Work: Article | Final Publisher PDF
• Publisher DOI: http://doi.org/10.1016/j.cpha.2018.08.002
• Subjects: Health Sciences, Health Care Management
• Keywords: Undocumented immigrants; Medical care; Health care; Access to care

Abstract

The number of undocumented immigrants (UIs) varies worldwide, and most reside in the United States. With more than 12 million UIs in the United States, addressing the health care needs of this population presents unique challenges and opportunities. Most UIs are uninsured and rely on the safety-net health system for their care. Because of young age, this population is often considered to be healthier than the overall US population, but they have specific health conditions and risks. Adequate coverage is lacking; however, there are examples of how to better address the health care needs of UIs. © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.