Los Angeles, California — The current crisis has placed the health rights of migrants at the heart of the debate. The combination of immigration raids in Los Angeles and Medi-Cal budget cuts has left thousands of families in a vulnerable situation. Still, community clinics like St. John’s Community Health continue to intensify their efforts to ensure access to medical care for those who fear seeking help due to deportation concerns.
Healthcare Under the Shadow of Fear
Community Clinics are under pressure. Since the raids began, mobile clinics and home care programs have become critically important. Medical teams have even faced immigration agents directly, defending their patients’ right to receive care without fear.
Mobile health units, such as the Health Express program, bring services to communities where people are afraid to leave their homes for fear of arrest. Despite these efforts, the impact has been devastating:
✅ Alarming rise in appointment cancellations
✅ Patients avoiding hospitals due to fear of raids
✅ Clinics struggling to maintain services amidst budget cuts
Medi-Cal Cuts: A Direct Blow to the Migrant Community
The recent state budget prohibits new enrollments of undocumented immigrants into Medi-Cal and cuts benefits for those already enrolled. This threatens access to essential treatments for chronic illnesses, therapies, and basic care, worsened by the looming threat of federal and state cuts to Medi-Cal.
Your Rights During Raids and Encounters with Immigration Agents
No one can be detained or questioned without legal cause. Under the Fourth Amendment of the Constitution:
✅ You can remain silent and not answer questions without an attorney.
✅ You can say: “I do not consent to this search without a warrant.”
✅ Never sign documents without legal advice.
✅ Request to speak with an attorney before any proceedings.
Remember: In July 2025, a federal judge in Los Angeles confirmed that immigration authorities cannot detain you solely based on your appearance, language, or location, reaffirming the protections of the Fourth and Fifth Amendments. This decision strengthens your rights against raids.
Access to Healthcare Even Without Medi-Cal
If you lost coverage or are afraid to go to a hospital, remember:
- Community clinics offer low-cost or free care.
- EMTALA guarantees emergency medical care in public hospitals, regardless of status.
- Local primary care programs and community health networks remain operational.
Additionally, suppose you were in an accident or need care after an incident. In that case, Ayuda California can connect you with doctors and legal services to protect your rights, regardless of immigration status.
Your Rights Do NOT Disappear
Even if you face health or immigration barriers:
- You can seek compensation if you were a victim of an accident, medical negligence, or abuse.
- California civil laws, such as CCP § 377.60 (wrongful death claim) and § 1714 (civil liability for negligent acts), protect your right to sue and seek compensation—regardless of immigration status.
At Ayuda California, we offer confidential legal support and free consultations to help you through every step of the process.
We Stand With You: Comprehensive Defense for You and Your Family
We understand the fear and uncertainty our migrant community faces. That’s why Ayuda California fights to ensure you have access to the medical treatment you need and the compensation you deserve for your violated rights.
📲 Contact us today. Your health, safety, and dignity are our priority.
