Given that undocumented immigrants in the US have a limited eligibility for medical programs and lack private health insurance, they encounter serious barriers in getting healthcare. Medicaid, however, could also aid some groups of non-citizens if certain conditions are met. Medicaid is a government program that was introduced in the year 1965 during the administration of President Lyndon Baines Johnson and aims to provide health care insurances of low income and needy men, women and children including inpatient and outpatient hospital services, physician services, and nursing home care. Medicaid, unlike the Medicare age limit, is intended for all age groups that suffer from financial and health challenges, and this enables millions of people in different parts of America to access its services without age being a barrier.
Illegal immigrants usually extend their injuries and ailments untreated because they are afraid of going to hospitals for fear that their immigration status will be known. This is a risky behavior not only because it compromises their health but it also puts the entire population in danger. Chronic conditions, mental health, infectious disease, all of these factors are even more common and more advanced in these populations, but lead to more severe illnesses and more complications. For such undocumented immigrants with no private insurance, availing of routine healthcare becomes economically impractical thus the importance of such programs as Medicaid for narrowing the healthcare divide.
The criterion for getting Medicaid among the non-citizens differs, with the majority of them having a five-year rule before qualifying. There are, however, exceptions for some categories who can access the benefits right away because of their situation. For instance, refugees and people who seek asylum are all eligible for Medicaid right after they land in the US. Additionally, Cuban and Haitian arrivals, human trafficking survivors, battered spouses, and tribes who are recognized by the US government can also access assistance immediately. There are provisions for Micronesians, the people of Palau and Marshall islands as well as green card holders and people who were admitted conditionally before 1980.
Healthcare services for undocumented immigrants who do not belong to these groups are sparse. Some might be able to use emergency Medicaid services, which are only provided for urgent medical attention without regard to one’s immigration status. Although these services can save a life, it is only short term care, and long term or preventive health care is not covered, and this exposes many to unhealthy situations as they remain with untreated illnesses. In this context, Medicaid carries significance for some of the groups, mitigating such situations by providing health care services to those who need it the most.
For undocumented immigrants, familiarizing oneself with the eligibility criteria and resources available is fundamental before exploring healthcare options. Although barriers continue to exist, Medicaid offers much needed relief to certain populations, acting as a cushion for individuals who have medical emergencies. By doing so, Medicaid contributes to the overall health of the population by reducing the health inequalities that exist within the society.
