Emergency Physicians Oppose Move to Revive “Public Charge” Policy

WASHINGTON, DC- In response to the Trump Administration's announcement that it is proposing to reinstate a "public charge" policy that would make it harder for immigrants already legally in the country to obtain a green card if they have used Medicaid or other public programs such as housing assistance or food aid, the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP) issued the following statement:

"Emergency physicians treat anyone who comes through our doors, 24/7, regardless of immigration status or ability to pay. That is both our ethical commitment and our legal obligation under the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA)," said L. Anthony Cirillo, MD, FACEP, president of ACEP. "Federal policy should not drive patients away from primary and preventive care until the emergency department is their only option. If finalized, this rule will deter people from seeking care early, worsen outbreaks of infectious disease, and further strain already overcrowded emergency departments--putting everyone at risk."

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