How to Get Health Care if Undocumented

Getting HIV Care Without Getting Deported (excerpts from different sources)

Ask your local AIDS service organization (ASO). Many can assign you a case manager who will help uncover the options available to you for HIV care and treatment. Find your local ASO at directory.poz.com ( used with permission). 

Even if you have no health insurance, funds are often available to pay for your health care. Ask your ASO case manager for information.

Find a community health center (by asking at a local hospital). These public clinics are devoted to serving the healthcare needs of low-income members of their communities. Most have an open-door policy when it comes to a patient's ability to pay.

If they don't ask, don't offer. Many clinics never ask for proof of citizenship, so you need not mention it. Some may require you to live in the area; as proof, they might request a utility bill or just a letter from someone you live with.

Know that health care workers are unlikely to report you to immigration authorities. Federal laws discourage anyone in a healthcare setting from revealing patient's confidential information. While immigration status is not necessarily covered by this, most providers won't divulge your information. Your best bet is a community clinic, where your health care needs are most likely to take priority over any interest in your immigration status.

Request a translator. Federal law requires health care facilities that receive any Medicaid or Medicare funds to provide translators.

Advocate for yourself! “The worst thing to do is to hide in fear,” says Charles King, CEO of New York City's Housing Works. “Then you effectively deny yourself the care you need.”

FOR THOSE IN CALIFORNIA:

If you live in the San Francisco County Area read the following resource to find help: http://qualitylonglifeinbayarea.blogspot.com/2016/04/immigrant-health-resources-for-you.

FOR THOSE IN ILLINOIS:

If you live in Chicago area:

http://www.rainbowwelcome.org/uploads/pdfs/Undocumented_Immigrants_English.pdf

FOR THOSE IN NEW YORK:

If you live in New York Area:

https://www.health.ny.gov/publications/0215.pdf

NB. With time, we shall be able to provide information for all US states.