I'm undocumented in Boston and need healthcare what do I do?

We all know this feeling

At Migrant Health Navigators, we recognize that accessing healthcare can be overwhelming for undocumented individuals, especially when fear of deportation and misinformation complicate the process. In Boston, there are a multitude of trustworthy resources available to help migrant families stay healthy and safe. Our mission is to provide families with accurate, reliable information about these services, empowering them to make informed healthcare decisions for themselves and their children. To support this goal, we’ve compiled essential details on key programs—ranging from vaccination opportunities to understanding legal rights—ensuring that no one has to face their healthcare journey alone.

Healthcare Resources in Boston

• Vaccines for Children Making sure your children receive necessary vaccines is a critical step toward preventing serious illnesses. Many clinics and hospitals in Boston offer no-cost or low-cost vaccination programs for children from low-income or uninsured families, including those who are undocumented. These programs, often part of state or federally funded initiatives, help keep all children in our communities healthy—regardless of immigration status and completely for free. If you show up to any doctors office asking to vaccinate your child and you cannot afford to pay your Doctor is required to administer the vaccine to your child for free.

• Boston Medical Center (BMC): Known for its commitment to the underserved, BMC offers a range of programs and financial assistance options for those who cannot afford medical services. Staff and volunteers can help with enrollment in available health insurance plans (like MassHealth) and other low-cost or free care programs. BMC also provides multilingual support, helping patients navigate the system in the language they’re most comfortable with and offers surgery and other emergency medical care your general practitioner cannot offer.

• Community Health Centers: In addition to larger hospitals, many neighborhoods have community health centers that specialize in providing primary and preventive care at little to no cost. They often have dedicated services for migrant families, offering everything from prenatal care to adult check-ups.

• Local Nonprofit Organizations: Groups such as the Massachusetts Immigrant and Refugee Advocacy (MIRA) Coalition can offer guidance on legal questions related to healthcare. They also hold informational sessions about asylum and temporary protected status filings and know-your-rights workshops.

Dispelling Myths

• Myth: “You can be deported at a hospital.”Reality: Hospitals do not report immigration status or collaborate with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) as a general practice. Their primary goal is to treat patients and ensure community health. In fact, healthcare professionals are bound by confidentiality laws that prevent them from sharing your personal information without your permission.

• Myth: “If you can’t pay, hospitals will refuse care.”Reality: No hospital in the United States can legally refuse emergency care based on the ability to pay or immigration status. Federally, the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA) mandates that anyone who arrives at an emergency department must be stabilized and treated, regardless of their insurance or legal status. Additionally, many hospitals and clinics have charity care or financial assistance programs specifically to help those who are uninsured or underinsured.

At Migrant Health Navigators, we strive to make these facts clear and accessible. We partner with local shelters and English as a Second Language (ESL) academies to host informational sessions, sharing materials in multiple languages so that everyone can understand their rights and healthcare options. We also encourage anyone—regardless of background—to explore volunteer opportunities with us. By coming together, we can create a more informed, healthier community where fear does not stand in the way of vital medical care. If you’d like to learn more or get involved, please visit our website or contact us directly.