"Fear of detention or deportation is leading many immigrants to avoid medical appointments, even when those visits are essential. This chilling effect is particularly acute among pregnant individuals, who may delay or forgo prenatal check‑ups out of concern that seeking care could expose them to immigration enforcement. The result is a growing public health crisis: expectant patients are left without consistent medical oversight, and communities face widening disparities in maternal and infant health outcomes."
""As has been reported elsewhere, there has been a really big chilling effect on all types of patients, including pregnant individuals, knowing that ICE is out and about in the community." She explained that this apprehension keeps people from leaving their homes, driving to prenatal appointments, or seeking timely care. While some needs can be met through telehealth, much of prenatal care-examinations, ultrasounds, and lab work-requires in‑person visits. Missing them undermines care quality."
A visible ICE presence across the United States is reshaping everyday healthcare decisions, with fear of detention or deportation prompting many immigrants to avoid essential medical appointments. The chilling effect is particularly acute among pregnant individuals who may delay or forgo prenatal check‑ups out of concern that care-seeking could expose them to immigration enforcement. Telehealth can meet some needs, but many prenatal services—examinations, ultrasounds, lab work—require in-person visits; missed visits undermine care quality. Apprehension to leave home or allow strangers into homes reduces monitoring of pregnancy complications, worsening outcomes for parents and infants. In April 2025, ACOG issued guidance calling for transformation of prenatal care delivery.
Read at Nonprofit Quarterly | Civic News. Empowering Nonprofits. Advancing Justice.
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