More than 1,400 people in Indiana have been subject to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) administrative arrest. Prior to the start of the Trump administration on January 20, ICE was not allowed in the emergency room or at the doctor’s office. The administration has rescinded the longstanding ICE policy that excluded ICE enforcement from “sensitive locations,” such as schools, medical facilities, and religious institutions. ICE sightings are now part of the new normal, and according to Axios Indianapolis, Indiana arrests by ICE grew 127% from January to June. As a result, more medical offices and facilities may encounter ICE agents at their office/facility.

General tips include:

• Have a policy vetted by legal counsel.
• Adhere to the policy.
• Ask for identification.
• Document the event.

Here are some articles from various sources to help navigate different situations:

• What Physicians Need to Know About Immigration Enforcement at Medical Offices and Facilities
• Responding to ICE in Emergency Departments: Protecting Patients and Navigating Legal Obligations EMRA
• ICE Enforcement in Healthcare: Key Compliance for Providers
• What if ICE comes calling? Attorneys inundated with questions ($)
• ICE Fact Sheets