Toward a new standard of health for immigrants in the United States

Abstract

Summary: The COVID-19 pandemic has caused massive disruptions in social life, created significant morbidity and mortality, and has exacerbated pre-existing disparities in health and welfare. In the United States, the pandemic has also catalyzed debate regarding how our health and social services infrastructure can be improved and bolstered going forward. An important part of these discussions revolves around the vulnerability experienced by immigrant populations during the pandemic. However, the debate has too often left unquestioned what fundamental standard of health is owed to immigrants. Here, we offer a set of proposals that can chart a course for a new standard of health for immigrants in the US, some of which, as a matter of statute, can ensure that the health of immigrant populations is not contingent on the policy prerogatives of various governmental administrations. Though these proposals would establish a novel standard for immigrant health, we argue that a broader approach is needed—encompassing local, state, and federal initiatives—to ensure that all members of society are provided fundamental resources and social support.