Fear of ICE Drives Patient No-Shows at California FQHCs — Providers Report Surging Missed Appointments

Beyond the Medi-Cal enrollment freeze and PPS elimination, a behavioral crisis is compounding FQHC revenue losses: patients — even those still eligible for coverage — are skipping appointments out of fear that ICE or federal authorities may be present near health facilities. This self-exclusion from care directly reduces visit volumes and revenue, layered on top of policy-driven losses. FQHCs need operational responses including trusted messenger campaigns, know-your-rights signage, and sensitive location policies.