Drop in Health Care Enrollment Among Immigrants in Oregon
Recent state data reveals a significant decline in immigrants enrolling in Oregon’s Healthier Oregon program, which offers health care regardless of immigration status. Enrollment peaked at 107,000 in June but fell to 97,000 by January, a drop experts attribute to fears surrounding immigration enforcement and data privacy.
Launched two years ago, the Healthier Oregon program serves those eligible for Medicaid if it weren’t for their immigration status. This includes refugees, lawful permanent residents, and others with special visas. As enrollment dipped, so did the number of program participants visiting doctors for routine care.
Dave Baden, Deputy Director for Policy and Programs at the Oregon Health Authority, stated, “We’re seeing fewer people signing up and less utilization, likely because of concerns stemming from federal policy changes.” He emphasized that the fear of data sharing with immigration officials is a significant barrier. Federal health agencies began sharing Medicaid data with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) earlier this year, which has heightened these concerns.
Oregon is one of five states in the U.S. that extend health care coverage to all income-eligible adults, regardless of their immigration status. Such initiatives are rare, making this data sharing particularly alarming for many in the state. According to the KFF, several states provide similar support only for specific groups, such as pregnant women and children.
Emergency services remain accessible to all, regardless of immigration status, through federal laws ensuring hospitals treat any patient in need. However, using these services can lead to data being shared with the federal government, which further deters some from seeking care.
In response to these concerns, Oregon and over 20 other states have filed a lawsuit to halt the data-sharing practice. Governor Tina Kotek expressed a commitment to protecting patient privacy while ensuring necessary health care access.
Impact of Federal Policies on Immigrant Health Care
A recent survey indicated that nearly half of undocumented immigrants have avoided medical care due to fears stemming from immigration policies. Since January 2025, these concerns have intensified, particularly after the Trump administration rescinded protections for health care facilities against immigration enforcement.
Reports of ICE agents approaching individuals in health care settings have surfaced, with incidents of agents detaining patients and their families. For instance, recently, a young girl and her family were detained in a hospital parking lot, highlighting the anxiety that many immigrants feel about seeking medical assistance.
Governor Kotek has urged health providers to reassure communities about their rights to safe medical care. “Fear and chaos from federal policies are hurting our communities,” she warned, emphasizing the importance of addressing these challenges to improve health outcomes.
As this situation develops, the intersection of health care access and immigration enforcement remains a critical concern for many Americans. Effective communication and policy adjustments may provide a pathway to better support vulnerable populations.
