Decline in Mobile Clinic Visits Among California Farmworkers Highlights Impact of Immigration Enforcement

Mobile medical clinics in rural Fresno County, California, have historically provided crucial healthcare access to farmworkers, many of whom are unauthorized immigrants. These clinics, operated by the University of California San Francisco (UCSF) and Saint Agnes Medical Center, offer basic health services including blood pressure checks, glucose monitoring, vaccinations, and health education. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the program expanded due to increased funding and an emphasis on healthcare accessibility for immigrant populations. However, in 2024, these clinics have seen a significant decline in patient visits, dropping by 15 to 36 percent compared to previous years. This reduction correlates with increased immigration enforcement efforts under the Trump administration, leading to heightened distrust among migrant workers toward government-affiliated health services. Concerns about data privacy and fear of immigration raids have deterred many from seeking care or enrolling in Medi-Cal, California’s Medicaid program for low-income residents, regardless of immigration status. State policy changes have also narrowed the scope of Medi-Cal enrollment for some immigrant groups, adding to the barriers these populations face. These clinics are often the only available healthcare resource for farmworkers living in remote areas, who are susceptible to chronic conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol. The decline in preventive care attendance may lead to worsening health outcomes and increased emergency room visits, which in turn may raise healthcare costs and strain local health systems. The programs rely on outreach through community events, partnerships with employers, and food distribution sites to connect with patients. Funding dedicated to mobile clinics, part of prior COVID-19 relief efforts, is set to expire within a year, potentially threatening the sustainability of these services. Healthcare professionals emphasize the importance of maintaining accessible and trusted care channels for vulnerable populations to manage chronic diseases and prevent more severe health crises. The challenges faced by these mobile clinics highlight broader issues regarding healthcare access, immigration enforcement policies, and public health funding within underserved agricultural communities in California.