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Governor Greg Abbott recently signed an executive order requiring public hospitals in Texas to collect information on the immigration status of patients for tracking costs related to care for undocumented migrants.
Previously, public hospitals did not inquire about immigration status. This new order mandates the collection of this data so Texas can bill the federal government for such costs.
In a statement, Governor Abbott cited the financial strain on Texas due to open border policies and emphasized that Texans should not have to cover the expenses for medical care of illegal immigrants.
Starting November 1, 2024, public hospitals will document the costs of care for undocumented immigrants, reporting this data quarterly to the state health commission beginning in March 2025.
Carrie Williams, spokesperson for the Texas Hospital Association, stated that hospitals provide treatment regardless of patient immigration status, as required by law. The association is currently reviewing the new requirement and will provide more information once they have analyzed it further.
Disclosure: The Texas Hospital Association has supported The Texas Tribune, a nonprofit news organization funded by members, foundations, and sponsors. Financial supporters do not influence Tribune’s journalism. View a complete list of sponsors here.
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