Illegal aliens may avoid care

ryanteaguebeckwith — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 08:26:50 -0400

Doctors around the state say a rising fervor over illegal immigration may scare illegal immigrants away from seeking health care.

In Alamance County, a recent case where medical records may have been used to prosecute a library worker who was in the country illegally has prompted many doctors to speak out about what they see as a breach of doctor-patient trust.

"Whether you're legal or illegal, it's always been assumed that your medical information is private and can't be used against you," said Dr. Christopher Snyder III of Concord, president of the N.C. Academy of Family Physicians. "The doctor-patient relationship is sacred, and I'm not sure that has really been challenged until now. We're in uncharted territory."

Snyder said that if the trend continues, infectious diseases could spread, infant mortality could rise and emergency costs could increase.

Immigrants often have a high rate of infectious diseases such as tuberculosis and often do not have health insurance. (N&O)