Emergency Medical Care for Undocumented Immigrants: Rights and Access

Yes, illegal immigrants can go to the hospital. While undocumented immigrants may lack health insurance and could face challenges accessing healthcare services, they are still entitled to receive emergency medical care under the Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act (EMTALA). This federal law requires hospitals to provide medical treatment to anyone in an emergency, regardless of their immigration status or ability to pay. In addition to emergency care, undocumented immigrants may also be able to access other health services at public hospitals or clinics, depending on the specific laws and policies of the state or locality in which they reside.