Open AccessCoronavirus Disease 2019 and the Case to Cover Undocumented Immigrants in California
Author(s) -
Diana L. Torres-Pinzon,
Walter Solorzano,
Sue E. Kim,
Michael R. Cousineau
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
health equity
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.826
H-Index - 9
ISSN - 2473-1242
DOI - 10.1089/heq.2020.0049
Subject(s) - immigration , pandemic , covid-19 , outbreak , population , medicine , health care , demography , disease , environmental health , gerontology , geography , political science , infectious disease (medical specialty) , sociology , virology , law , archaeology , pathology
Latinos have been affected at higher rates in California. These include undocumented immigrants who are the largest group of Californians that remains uninsured. This population has limited access to health care services and coverage options. The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has shown that undocumented immigrants are particularly vulnerable during this outbreak as they are more likely to delay seeking medical care and lack a regular source of care. In addition, many work in essential services, have low or moderate incomes, and live in overcrowded conditions increasing their risk for exposure to COVID-19. To reduce the state's COVID-19 burden, California should expand comprehensive Medi-Cal to all eligible individuals regardless of immigration status.