Immigrant Families Have Avoided Medical Care for Children

A new research brief indicates many families forgo healthcare and school due to concerns regarding immigration status.

Updated on Sept. 18, 2026 in Children’s Health

Bold vector editorial illustration of a medical stethoscope resting on a school backpack, representing the tension between healthcare and education. — A new research brief finds that immigrant families across the U.S. are increasingly forgoing essential medical and educational services due to immigration-related fears. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Do you believe fears over immigration status should prevent families from accessing public services and healthcare?

Pediatricians across the United States have reported that immigrant families are increasingly avoiding medical care for their children. Survey data shows that these families also frequently opt out of government programs and school enrollment over fears related to their immigration status.

Why it matters

The avoidance of essential healthcare and educational services poses a significant risk to the long-term well-being of children in immigrant families. Pediatricians note that these concerns are preventing families from accessing necessary public resources and medical support.

A survey of 1,654 pediatricians found that 39.6 percent reported families avoiding medical care. Additionally, 31.3 percent of respondents observed avoidance of government programs, while 21.3 percent reported families avoiding school enrollment.

The players

American Academy of Pediatrics

This professional organization of pediatricians is based in Itasca, Illinois, and provides research and guidance on child health.

The details

Researchers utilized data from the Pediatrician Life and Career Experience Study to gauge the perceptions of doctors treating patients in immigrant families. The findings indicate that avoidance is particularly prevalent in urban and inner-city areas, with subspecialists reporting higher rates of these issues than generalist practitioners.

September 15, 2026: The American Academy of Pediatrics published the research brief online.
September 18, 2026: HealthDay published a report covering the findings.

Health Landscape

This research utilizes the Pediatrician Life and Career Experience Study to quantify the impact of social and political concerns on patient access to care. It highlights a critical intersection between public health and administrative barriers that limit clinical engagement.

Healthcare providers may need to implement more supportive outreach strategies to ensure families feel safe accessing clinical services. Families experiencing these concerns may face significant hurdles in maintaining consistent health check-ups and preventative care for their children.

The takeaway

Healthcare providers and community organizations can play a vital role in fostering trust to ensure children do not miss essential services. Ensuring families understand their rights and the safety of medical settings is critical for long-term pediatric health outcomes.