Monterey County hospitals release Healthcare for All statements

MONTEREY COUNTY, Calif. (KION) -- The Monterey County Health Department, along with local health services, reassured their commitment to providing healthcare to all in Monterey County, regardless of immigration status.

Natividad Medical Center released a joint statement with the Health Department to announce their reassurance amid privacy

“We are committed to providing equitable, compassionate, quality care to all individuals regardless of immigration status. Private medical is protected. Patient privacy and trust are central to the care we provide and we take all necessary steps to safeguard that trust,” Natividad CEO Dr. Chad Harris said.

Natividad is also distributing red cards to hospitals and community partners that describe constitutional rights for those undocumented.

Another joint statement was made with the CEOs of Montage Health, Salinas Valley Health, and Mee Memorial Healthcare Systems to reassure their patients they can continue to receive care.

"We recognize that fears surrounding immigration enforcement may discourage individuals from seeking medical care. Let us be clear: your health, safety, and access to care are our priorities. We strictly adhere to California and federal privacy laws, which prohibit the disclosure of patient information without a legal mandate," the statement said.