York Professor Discusses the Current Health of Immigrant Communities

Assistant Professor Claudia Calhoon, PhD., (Health and Human Performance) spoke at the Renaissance School of Medicine at Stony Brook University’s Social Medicine Grand Rounds in Southampton, NY, on Wednesday, September 9. In her talk, “The Health of Immigrant Communities in the Trump Era,” Dr. Calhoon examined how shifting immigration, health care, and public health policies shape the well-being of immigrant communities and the broader population.

Drawing on policy analysis and peer-reviewed research, she reviewed recent changes in immigration enforcement, detention practices, asylum policy, public charge regulations, and health care financing. She highlighted evidence linking restrictive policies to delayed care, reduced prenatal and preventive services, increased food insecurity, and poorer mental health outcomes for immigrants and their U.S.-born family members.

Concluding with practical strategies, Dr. Calhoon offered guidance on patient rights, public charge rules, coverage options, and local Long Island resources, underscoring the critical role of health professionals and institutions in advancing health equity.