Potential Impacts of New Requirements in Florida and Texas for Hospitals to Request Patient Immigration Status

Florida and Texas have enacted new laws requiring hospitals to collect patient immigration status. Despite this, federal law dictates patient care cannot be affected by the response. Both states have a high immigrant population, with many being undocumented. These laws could potentially incite fear in immigrant families and discourage seeking medical help. The laws could also impact the states’ economies and workforces, as immigrants make up a substantial part of certain occupations. The American Medical Association suggests avoiding documenting immigration status in health records.