Connecticut Urged to Aid Immigrant Health Care Access

Advocates call for state solutions as federal cuts impact undocumented residents

Apr. 8, 2026 at 9:45pm

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Health care advocates in Connecticut are urging the state government to include immigrant communities in solutions to address the impact of federal health care funding cuts, particularly for undocumented residents who face limited access to resources.

Why it matters

The issue highlights the challenges faced by immigrant families in accessing essential health services, especially as federal policies and budget cuts create additional barriers. Addressing this disparity is crucial for ensuring equitable health care access across all communities in Connecticut.

The details

According to third-year resident physician Teresa Elmore at Yale New Haven Health, she has encountered cases where immigrant mothers have come to her clinic in tears, worried about financial struggles and limited access to resources due to their immigration status. Elmore recounted one instance where an attending physician suggested the mother seek help from a church, rather than through official health care channels.

  • The issues described by Elmore occurred recently in her medical practice.

The players

Teresa Elmore

A third-year resident physician at Yale New Haven Health who has encountered immigrant patients facing barriers to accessing health care resources.

Yale New Haven Health

A major health care system in Connecticut where Elmore practices medicine.

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What they’re saying

“It got to the point where one of my attendings had said, 'Well, maybe you should suggest that she could just enter a church and just ask for help that way,'”

— Teresa Elmore, Third-year resident physician

The takeaway

This issue highlights the critical need for Connecticut to develop comprehensive solutions that ensure all residents, regardless of immigration status, have equitable access to essential health care services. Addressing these disparities is crucial for promoting the well-being of immigrant communities and the state as a whole.