My op-ed, Our health care depends on immigrants, is published in today’s Newsday. There is a paywall, but you can subscribe for five months for 25 cents. Below are excerpts with comments.
My parents spent their last years in a retirement community in Westchester County. They largely enjoyed the place and the people with one caveat – what they called the dinner-time “Organ Recitals.” These had nothing to do with a Wurlitzer or Hammond but were recitations of what was wrong with people’s internal organs. As in, “Oy, my bladder is acting up.” Or, “Did I mention my liver problems?”
I vowed never to fall prey to that tendency as I aged.
But last year I experienced a series of unfortunate health incidents, including bladder stone surgery, a compression fracture of the back, installation of a defibrillator, esophagitis and a pulmonary embolism.
Don’t feel sorry for me though. I’m recovered and I’ve only given this “organ recital” to make a point: The only organ still affected is my brain — in particular the parts governing appreciation and rage — appreciation for having healthcare, largely provided by immigrants, and rage at those who deny healthcare to millions and demonize immigrants who are essential for providing it.
Most people giving me care were immigrants, especially among health support staff. In many states, very high percentages of health care support workers – nursing assistants, personal care aides and home health aides -- are immigrants — more than 50% in New York, more than 41% in California, and more than 37% in Florida, according to the Migration Policy Institute.
Like prior generations of immigrants, they are making essential contributions to this country while seeking a better life here. And like everyone else, they deserve the health care they are giving others.
It’s time to shift the narrative from hysterical “border caravans” to “these people are vital to saving our lives.”