Unsettled: Migrant Health in the U.S.

When Ice Brings You the Patient

In this episode of Unsettled, we examine what happens when immigration enforcement collides with healthcare. Dr. Mark Kuczewski, Dr. Amy Blair, and Dr. Theresa Nguyen join the show to discuss their recent American Journal of Bioethics publication on the ethical challenges clinicians face when treating patients in ICE custody. They explain how hospitals often apply blanket forensic patient policies—originally designed for dangerous incarcerated individuals—to immigrant patients who may pose no threat, resulting in harmful practices like shackling, privacy violations, and barriers to proper medical care. Sanctuary doctoring link [https://www.luc.edu/stritch/bioethics/medicaleducation/sanctuarydoctor/] ---------------------------------------- Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy [https://acast.com/privacy] for more information.

Barriers at the Border

In this episode, Dr. Judith Flores speaks with Jesús de la Torre of the Hope Border Institute about the human impact of immigration policy at the U.S.–Mexico border. Drawing from the report Cruelty as Policy, they discuss conditions in detention centers, the harm of family and child detention, and the broader public health consequences of current enforcement strategies. The conversation highlights the need for comprehensive immigration reform and calls on healthcare professionals and communities to engage in advocacy that upholds dignity, safety, and access to care. Host: Judith Flores, MD Guest * Jesús de la Torre ---------------------------------------- Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy [https://acast.com/privacy] for more information.

Healing Under Pressure - Physicians Fear and the Duty to Care

In this episode, we discuss the impact of immigration enforcement on healthcare. The panel explores how ICE activity is affecting immigrant patients, creating fear around seeking care, and challenging healthcare providers to maintain trust, confidentiality, and ethical practice. Through personal experiences and clinical insights, the conversation highlights the need for clear protocols in healthcare settings, patient education on their rights, and stronger advocacy to protect vulnerable communities. The episode underscores the broader public health implications of immigration enforcement and the role healthcare professionals can play in supporting immigrant patients. Host: Judith Flores, MD Guests: Roberto Johansson, MD Anne Lifflander, MD Chanelle Diaz, MD ---------------------------------------- Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy [https://acast.com/privacy] for more information.

Healthcare in the Shadow of ICE

In this episode of Unsettled: Migrant Health in the U.S., we are joined by Dr. Lisa Mattson, President of the Minnesota Medical Association, to discuss how immigration enforcement actions are impacting healthcare delivery in Minnesota. Dr. Mattson shares concerns about increased ICE presence in hospitals and clinics, reports of HIPAA violations and staff intimidation, and how fear of detention is leading some patients to avoid seeking care. We also explore how providers are adapting through home visits, virtual care, and clearer institutional protocols to protect patients and staff, and the broader role of organized medicine in advocating for patient rights and access to care. Host: Judith Flores, MD Guest: * Lisa Mattson, MD ---------------------------------------- Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy [https://acast.com/privacy] for more information.

Trust, Treatment, and the Future of HIV Care

In this episode of Unsettled: Migrant Health in the US, we explore the current state of HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment in the United States. From long-acting injectable therapies and evolving PrEP options to persistent barriers facing migrant and underserved communities, this conversation examines both progress and gaps in care. We discuss stigma, immigration-related fears, funding challenges, and the role of community partnerships in expanding access. Scientific innovation is advancing, but equity, trust, and culturally grounded outreach remain essential to moving forward. Host: * Judith Flores, MD * Disleiry Benitez, MPH Guest: * Nathaly Rubio-Torio, LMSW * Shirley Torho, MPH * Carlos Salama, MD * Daniel Leyva ---------------------------------------- Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy [https://acast.com/privacy] for more information.