Critical Incidences in U.S. Health Care Systems Experienced by Undocumented Young Adults

Purpose: Undocumented (“illegal immigrant”) young adults and families face many barriers when seeking health care, including discrimination, which contributes to health disparities. Using critical race theory, an investigation of experiences of health care among undocumented young adults was conducted to highlight their limitations to health care access. Methods: Using a community-based participatory paradigm, a qualitative research approach was used to explore the experiences of 13 participants via a semistructured interview. Upon transcription and broad theme analysis conducted by the primary team members, a gathering of community experts was arranged. This gathering consisted of the primary team members as well as community young adults who identified as undocumented or of mixed-status families, in which all engaged in a collaborative analysis of themes and confirmation of corresponding illustrative data. Furthermore, community experts provided feedback on their insights for the necessary next steps. Results: Through collaborative thematic analysis and confirmation of illustrative data, four themes emerged: (1) emotional and financial stress, (2) fear of exposure, (3) dependence on community health clinics, and (4) hospitals as a last resource. Conclusion: Undocumented young adults and their families make great attempts to access health care, however, because of systemic barriers, they engage in strategies to preserve their safety in such attempts. Due to lack of insurance and financial strain, undocumented families depend on resources they most trust, typically health clinics. However, as many families depend on this resource, they may hinder efficiency in getting the specific help they need, especially if they do not have the capacity to adequately address medical issues that require immediate attention.