Healthcare Injustice: Navigating Obstacles for Undocumented Immigrants in the US

According to Article 25 of the UDHR (Universal Declaration of Human Rights), "Everyone has the right to a standard of living adequate for the health and well-being of themselves and their families, including access to food, clothing, housing, medical care, and necessary social services. They also have the right to security in the event of unemployment, sickness, disability, widowhood, old age, or other circumstances beyond their control." However, undocumented individuals in the United States face severe limitations in accessing healthcare. This situation is unjust because all human beings have the right to receive healthcare, and the immigration status of individuals should not hinder their access to this fundamental right. Many undocumented immigrants come to America seeking opportunities, only to encounter numerous obstacles in accessing them. Their only options for healthcare are either private health insurance, which is very expensive, and health insurance through their employer which is never guaranteed. Unfortunately, only citizens of the United States are eligible for federal healthcare programs such as Medicaid, which presents another major obstacle to healthcare for those without legal status.

The Citizenship Dilemma: A Lengthy Path to Equality

The widely challenging and lengthy process of obtaining US citizenship contributes to the healthcare inequality that this demographic faces. Generally, a person needs to have a green card for at least five years to become a citizen, unless they are married to a citizen of the United States, in which case the time frame is reduced to three years. However getting a green card itself may be a difficult procedure that requires a lot of paperwork, background checks, interviews, and sometimes long wait times because of visa backlogs. Given this, those who are undocumented frequently have few options for receiving healthcare and may rely on emergency services or community clinics, which may not be sufficient to meet their needs for continuous medical care and preventive care. This demonstrates the critical need for inclusive healthcare policy and comprehensive immigration reform to guarantee that everyone, regardless of immigration status, has access to basic healthcare services as a human right.

GETTING INVOLVED

Another way to advocate for undocumented immigrants is through involvement in organizations that focus on promoting and protecting the rights of immigrant communities. One such organization is the New York Immigration Coalition (NYIC). The NYIC advocates for laws and policies to improve the lives of immigrants and all New Yorkers, particularly those who live in lower-income communities. Areas of focus include low-cost immigration legal services, immigrant access to vital health services, immigration enforcement and incarceration reform, strengthening immigrant language access, immigrant workers' rights, and improving immigrant access to educational resources. Stand in solidarity with the NYIC in their mission to create a more just society. Consider contributing to their efforts by making a donation here or signing up to become a volunteer. Your support will enable the NYIC to continue its crucial work in advocating for the rights and well-being of undocumented individuals and immigrant communities. If you're interested in learning more about the New York Immigration Coalition and the impactful work they do, visit their website. Immigration Advocacy, Immigration Education - NYC, Long Island, New York State | New York Immigration Coalition (nyic.org)

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