In 2023, the number of migrants arriving at the U.S. southern border reached an all-time high, with many of them being malnourished and in poor health. To address this crisis, the Migrant Clinicians Network, based in Austin, has been working tirelessly to provide medical assistance to those in need. Last year alone, the organization assisted over 1,700 migrants in accessing healthcare, with a majority of them being pregnant women.
Kim Nolte, CEO of the Migrant Clinicians Network, emphasized the importance of prenatal care in reducing complications during labor and ensuring that migrants receive proper medical attention. However, newly arrived migrants often struggle to navigate the healthcare system due to lack of knowledge and fear of jeopardizing their immigration status. Additionally, many migrants live too far from federally funded health centers which would provide fully subsidized care. Language barriers and financial constraints further complicate the situation making it difficult for migrants to access necessary medical services.
To bridge this gap between migrants and much-needed medical care, the Migrant Clinicians Network serves as an advocate for those in need. The organization provides triage services at immigration shelters, helps schedule medical appointments and continues to support asylum seekers as they navigate their immigration journey. The work that Nolte and her team are doing is crucial in ensuring that all migrants receive the medical care they need to live healthy lives and thrive in their new communities.
