What is a Public Charge and Does Receipt of Health Benefits Impact It?

Executive Summary

In a new Issue Brief, Managing Attorney of the D.C. Office Mara Youdelman explains how the acceptance of some public benefits can be used to bar immigrants or deport them. Historically receipt of publicly funded health services has not resulted in deportations. The use of Medicaid and other publicly funded health services should not be used to harm immigrants, Youdleman writes. Medicaid and other publicly funded health insurance services are essential for immigrants, their families and the “health and well-being of the broader community.”