The Oregon Nurses Association has criticized Legacy Emanuel Medical Center in Portland, Ore., for allegedly allowing U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement to interfere with patient care and privacy.
In recent months, ICE has been bringing detainees to Legacy Emanuel Medical Center for medical treatment, according to a public statement from the union.
The ONA — which represents more than 24,000 healthcare workers in the state — said ICE officers remained in rooms during sensitive exams, influenced discharge decisions and pressured clinicians to alter treatment plans. The union also alleged detainees were denied HIPAA protections and support in contacting legal or family resources.
Portland-based Legacy Health disputed the claims and said it was disappointed by the union’s decision to share the letter before the hospital could respond. “This approach of sharing incomplete and misleading information perpetuates misinformation and creates additional fear and confusion,” the system said in a statement to Becker’s.
Legacy Health said there has been no increase in ICE enforcement activity at its facilities and that law enforcement officers have not conducted enforcement actions onsite. The system said its policies apply equally to all agencies and that it remains committed to providing care regardless of immigration status.
The union is requesting a meeting within 14 days and is urging Legacy Health to revise protocols related to law enforcement presence, protected health information and patient rights for those in custody.
