Unsettled: Migrant Health in the U.S.

In this episode, Dr. Judith Flores speaks with Jesús de la Torre of the Hope Border Institute about the human impact of immigration policy at the U.S.–Mexico border. Drawing from the report Cruelty as Policy, they discuss conditions in detention centers, the harm of family and child detention, and the broader public health consequences of current enforcement strategies. The conversation highlights the need for comprehensive immigration reform and calls on healthcare professionals and communities to engage in advocacy that upholds dignity, safety, and access to care.Host: Judith Flores, MDGuestJesús de la Torre

In this episode, we discuss the impact of immigration enforcement on healthcare. The panel explores how ICE activity is affecting immigrant patients, creating fear around seeking care, and challenging healthcare providers to maintain trust, confidentiality, and ethical practice.Through personal experiences and clinical insights, the conversation highlights the need for clear protocols in healthcare settings, patient education on their rights, and stronger advocacy to protect vulnerable communities. The episode underscores the broader public health implications of immigration enforcement and the role healthcare professionals can play in supporting immigrant patients.Host: Judith Flores, MDGuests:Roberto Johansson, MDAnne Lifflander, MDChanelle Diaz, MD

In this episode of Unsettled: Migrant Health in the U.S., we are joined by Dr. Lisa Mattson, President of the Minnesota Medical Association, to discuss how immigration enforcement actions are impacting healthcare delivery in Minnesota. Dr. Mattson shares concerns about increased ICE presence in hospitals and clinics, reports of HIPAA violations and staff intimidation, and how fear of detention is leading some patients to avoid seeking care. We also explore how providers are adapting through home visits, virtual care, and clearer institutional protocols to protect patients and staff, and the broader role of organized medicine in advocating for patient rights and access to care.Host: Judith Flores, MDGuest: Lisa Mattson, MD

In this episode of Unsettled: Migrant Health in the US, we explore the current state of HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment in the United States. From long-acting injectable therapies and evolving PrEP options to persistent barriers facing migrant and underserved communities, this conversation examines both progress and gaps in care.We discuss stigma, immigration-related fears, funding challenges, and the role of community partnerships in expanding access. Scientific innovation is advancing, but equity, trust, and culturally grounded outreach remain essential to moving forward.Host:Judith Flores, MDDisleiry Benitez, MPHGuest:Nathaly Rubio-Torio, LMSWShirley Torho, MPHCarlos Salama, MDDaniel Leyva

In this episode, Dr. Judith Flores and Dr. Chanelle Diaz examine the health inequities facing immigrant communities, from clinic settings to detention centers. They discuss the limits of cultural competence, the importance of partnering with immigrant families, and the harsh conditions and medical neglect documented in detention facilities. The conversation also highlights the impact of enforcement on children, the financial incentives driving detention expansion, and the vital role clinicians can play in documenting neglect and advocating for immigrant health and justice.

In this episode, Dr. Judith Flores sits down with Dr. Priscilla Duran Luciano, postdoctorate research fellow at Albert Einstein College of Medicine, to discuss hereditary cardiac amyloidosis in Dominican and Hispanic communities—an often-overlooked condition tied to a specific genetic mutation. They explore why symptoms can be missed, the importance of clinical suspicion and genetic testing, and the challenges of access in under-resourced communities. Priscilla also shares her journey from medical school in the Dominican Republic to her research career, highlighting the need for culturally sensitive care, data disaggregation, and increasing Hispanic participation in clinical trials.