Strategy: Communicating to Undocumented Patients That FQHC Doors Stay Open
Fear of immigration enforcement is driving undocumented patients away from healthcare — even from FQHCs. Critical communication tactics: (1) Post multilingual signage stating FQHC does not collect or share immigration status. (2) Train all front desk staff to reassure patients verbally. (3) Partner with immigrant rights organizations for trusted referrals. (4) Use community radio and social media in Spanish, Vietnamese, Mandarin. (5) Remind patients that sliding fee scale means care at any price point. (6) Coordinate with legal aid for 'Know Your Rights' sessions on-site.
Key takeaways
- Fear of immigration enforcement is driving undocumented patients away from healthcare — even from FQHCs
- Post multilingual signage stating FQHC does not collect or share immigration status
- Train all front desk staff to verbally reassure patients about confidentiality protections
- Use community radio and social media in Spanish, Vietnamese, and Mandarin for outreach
- Coordinate with legal aid for on-site 'Know Your Rights' sessions
Primary source
NILCFQHC Talent. (2026, February 27). Strategy: Communicating to Undocumented Patients That FQHC Doors Stay Open. Primary source: NILC. Retrieved April 28, 2026, from https://www.fqhctalent.com/intel/strategy-undocumented-doors-open
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