Supporting Immigrant Families as Public Charge Rule Takes Effect

With the new Public Charge Rule in effect as of February 24, we want to help our immigrant patients and families understand these changes and encourage them to continue bringing their children to us for care and to utilize the diverse resources and services provided by Every Child Pediatrics.

What is the Public Charge Rule?

The term “public charge” is used to describe a person that is dependent on the government for the majority of his or her financial support. If it is determined that an individual is likely to become a “public charge,” their application to enter the US or become a Lawful Permanent Resident may be denied.

Please keep in mind that it does not hurt your case if your child has Medicaid or other benefits. We encourage you to keep your children covered so that they can get quality health care and support.

Here is a fact sheet from our partner, the Center for Health Progress. Here is the fact sheet en espanol.

Here are important facts to keep in mind:

• Most immigrants are not affected
• Many benefit programs are not included in the test
• Use of benefits doesn’t automatically make you a public charge
• Benefits used by family members don’t count toward your test
• Laws protect the personal information of benefit users and applicants. Know your rights!

Another fact sheet from the State of Colorado about the Public Charge Rule is available here.

Do you need help with Medicaid, WIC and other programs? Staff from Tri-County Health Department are available on a walk-in basis on Mondays at our Thornton office, from 8 am to 3:30 pm, to help you with Medicaid applications and questions. WIC support is available at our Thornton office Mondays to Thursdays by calling 303-450-3690 ext. 1106 or emailing jschneider@tchd.org. We also have other partners in our Aurora School-Based Health Centers who help with public benefits. You can ask about these services by calling our Crawford office at 303-326-2090.

Our mission is to provide high-quality health care and support services to all children, regardless of insurance or ability to pay. We support our immigrant families and are here to help you. Please call us at 303-450-3690 to schedule your child’s visit.