1. What are the main barriers that undocumented immigrants face in accessing healthcare in New Jersey?

Undocumented immigrants in New Jersey face several barriers in accessing healthcare services, including:

1. Limited eligibility for public health insurance programs: Undocumented immigrants are generally excluded from Medicaid and other public health insurance programs, making it difficult for them to afford healthcare services.

2. Financial constraints: Due to their immigration status, undocumented immigrants often do not have access to employer-sponsored health insurance, leading to significant out-of-pocket costs for medical care.

3. Fear of deportation: Many undocumented immigrants avoid seeking healthcare services out of fear that their immigration status will be revealed and they will be at risk of deportation.

4. Limited access to primary care providers: Undocumented immigrants may face challenges in finding healthcare providers who are willing to treat them due to concerns about reimbursement and legal restrictions.

5. Language and cultural barriers: Limited English proficiency and cultural differences can also make it difficult for undocumented immigrants to navigate the healthcare system and access appropriate care.

Addressing these barriers requires policy changes to expand healthcare coverage options for undocumented immigrants, increase funding for safety-net clinics, and provide culturally and linguistically appropriate care to improve health outcomes for this vulnerable population.

2. What resources are available to help undocumented immigrants navigate the healthcare system in New Jersey?

Undocumented immigrants in New Jersey face various challenges in accessing healthcare due to their legal status. However, there are resources available to help them navigate the healthcare system in the state:

1. Community Health Centers: Undocumented immigrants can seek care at federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) and free clinics that provide low-cost or no-cost healthcare services to those in need, regardless of immigration status.

2. Nonprofit Organizations: There are organizations in New Jersey that specifically focus on providing support and resources to undocumented immigrants when it comes to accessing healthcare. These organizations may offer assistance in enrolling in health programs, providing information on available services, and advocating for their healthcare rights.

3. Patient Navigators: Some healthcare facilities may have patient navigators or social workers who can assist undocumented immigrants in understanding their healthcare options, connecting them with appropriate services, and helping them overcome barriers to care.

4. Telehealth Services: With the advancement of telehealth services, undocumented immigrants can access medical care remotely, which can be particularly helpful for those concerned about their immigration status or unable to physically visit healthcare facilities.

While these resources can be helpful in facilitating healthcare access for undocumented immigrants in New Jersey, it is essential to address the broader systemic issues that limit their access to comprehensive and affordable care. Advocacy efforts to expand healthcare coverage for undocumented immigrants, community outreach programs, and policy changes are also crucial in ensuring equitable access to healthcare for all individuals, regardless of their immigration status.

3. How does the lack of health insurance impact undocumented immigrants’ access to healthcare in New Jersey?

Undocumented immigrants in New Jersey face significant barriers in accessing healthcare due to their lack of health insurance. The absence of insurance coverage means that undocumented immigrants must often pay out-of-pocket for healthcare services, which can be prohibitively expensive. As a result:

1. Undocumented immigrants may delay seeking medical care until their condition worsens, leading to more serious health issues that could have been prevented or treated earlier with timely access to healthcare services.

2. Without health insurance, undocumented immigrants may struggle to afford medications and treatments prescribed by healthcare providers, further compromising their health outcomes.

3. The lack of health insurance also limits undocumented immigrants’ access to preventive care services such as vaccinations, screenings, and routine check-ups, which are essential for maintaining overall health and well-being.

Overall, the absence of health insurance significantly hinders undocumented immigrants’ ability to access timely and quality healthcare in New Jersey, ultimately exacerbating health disparities and contributing to poorer health outcomes within this vulnerable population.

4. What are the legal restrictions on healthcare access for undocumented immigrants in New Jersey?

In New Jersey, undocumented immigrants face several legal restrictions on healthcare access due to their immigration status. These restrictions include:

1. Limited access to public health insurance programs: Undocumented immigrants are not eligible for Medicaid or other state-funded health insurance programs in New Jersey, which limits their ability to access affordable healthcare services.

2. Restrictions on some healthcare services: Undocumented immigrants may face barriers to accessing certain medical services, such as organ transplants or emergency medical care, due to their immigration status and lack of insurance coverage.

3. Fear of deportation: Undocumented immigrants may be hesitant to seek healthcare services out of fear of being reported to immigration authorities and potentially facing deportation, leading to delays in seeking needed medical care.

4. Financial barriers: Without access to public health insurance programs, undocumented immigrants often have to pay out-of-pocket for healthcare services, which can be prohibitively expensive and may result in delayed or limited access to care.

Overall, the legal restrictions on healthcare access for undocumented immigrants in New Jersey create significant barriers to obtaining essential medical services and contribute to health disparities within this vulnerable population. Efforts to address these barriers, such as expanding access to affordable healthcare options and ensuring protections for undocumented immigrants seeking medical care, are crucial to promoting health equity and improving healthcare access for all residents of the state.

5. How do healthcare providers in New Jersey support the healthcare needs of undocumented immigrants?

Healthcare providers in New Jersey support the healthcare needs of undocumented immigrants through various initiatives and programs, such as:

1. Culturally sensitive care: Providers strive to create a welcoming and inclusive healthcare environment for undocumented immigrants by understanding and respecting their cultural backgrounds and unique healthcare needs.

2. Sliding fee scales: Many healthcare facilities offer discounted or sliding fee scales based on income, which can help make healthcare services more affordable for undocumented immigrants who may not have health insurance.

3. Community health centers: These centers often provide essential healthcare services to all individuals, regardless of their immigration status. They serve as a vital resource for undocumented immigrants to access primary and preventive care.

4. Outreach and education: Healthcare providers in New Jersey engage in outreach and education efforts to inform undocumented immigrants about available healthcare services, their rights, and how to navigate the healthcare system effectively.

5. Collaboration with advocacy organizations: Providers may collaborate with advocacy organizations that specialize in supporting undocumented immigrants to ensure that they receive the necessary healthcare services and support.

6. What are the challenges in providing culturally competent care to undocumented immigrants in New Jersey?

There are several challenges in providing culturally competent care to undocumented immigrants in New Jersey:

1. Language barriers: Undocumented immigrants may face challenges in accessing healthcare services due to limited English proficiency. Providing care in multiple languages can be costly and time-consuming for healthcare providers.

2. Limited access to culturally competent providers: Undocumented immigrants may have difficulty finding healthcare providers who are knowledgeable about their cultural backgrounds and specific health needs. This lack of culturally competent care can lead to misunderstandings and misdiagnoses.

3. Fear of deportation: Many undocumented immigrants in New Jersey may be hesitant to seek healthcare services out of fear of being reported to immigration authorities. This fear can prevent them from accessing necessary medical treatment, leading to worsening health outcomes.

4. Lack of health insurance: Undocumented immigrants are not eligible for Medicaid or other forms of public health insurance in most states, including New Jersey. This lack of insurance coverage can result in limited access to preventive care and necessary treatments.

5. Stigma and discrimination: Undocumented immigrants may face stigma and discrimination within the healthcare system, which can impact their willingness to seek care. Providers must be aware of these potential biases and work to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for all patients.

6. Cultural differences in healthcare beliefs and practices: Undocumented immigrants may have different beliefs and practices around health and wellness that may not align with Western medical approaches. Healthcare providers must take these cultural differences into account when providing care in order to ensure effective communication and treatment.

7. How do language barriers affect healthcare access for undocumented immigrants in New Jersey?

Language barriers can significantly hinder healthcare access for undocumented immigrants in New Jersey. Here are a few ways in which language barriers impact healthcare access for this population:

1. Limited understanding: Undocumented immigrants who do not speak English may struggle to understand medical instructions, treatment options, and important health information provided by healthcare providers. This lack of understanding can lead to misunderstandings, misdiagnosis, or inadequate treatment.

2. Difficulty in communication: Communication breakdowns between patients and healthcare providers due to language barriers can impede the patient’s ability to accurately describe their symptoms, medical history, and concerns. This can result in suboptimal care and potentially compromise the patient’s health outcomes.

3. Limited access to healthcare services: Undocumented immigrants facing language barriers may be hesitant to seek medical care or navigate the healthcare system due to the fear of not being able to effectively communicate with healthcare providers. This can lead to delays in seeking care, exacerbation of health conditions, and decreased utilization of preventive services.

Addressing language barriers is crucial to improving healthcare access for undocumented immigrants in New Jersey. Healthcare facilities can provide interpretation services, offer multilingual resources, and train staff on cultural competency to better serve this population. Additionally, community organizations and healthcare providers can collaborate to ensure language access for undocumented immigrants and advocate for policies that support linguistic diversity in healthcare settings.

8. What are some successful initiatives in New Jersey that aim to improve healthcare access for undocumented immigrants?

In New Jersey, there have been several successful initiatives aimed at improving healthcare access for undocumented immigrants.

1. The New Jersey Health Care Access for Immigrants Campaign is a coalition of organizations dedicated to advocating for policies that expand access to healthcare for undocumented immigrants. This initiative works to raise awareness about the importance of providing healthcare to all residents regardless of immigration status.

2. Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) in New Jersey are mandated to provide care to all individuals, regardless of their ability to pay or immigration status. These centers serve as crucial access points for undocumented immigrants to receive primary and preventive care services.

3. The New Jersey FamilyCare program provides low-cost or free health coverage to eligible low-income individuals, including some undocumented immigrants who meet specific criteria. This program has helped many undocumented immigrants access essential healthcare services.

These initiatives demonstrate the importance of policies and programs that prioritize healthcare access for all individuals, regardless of immigration status, in order to improve the overall health and well-being of communities in New Jersey.

9. What role do community health centers play in providing healthcare to undocumented immigrants in New Jersey?

Community health centers play a crucial role in providing healthcare to undocumented immigrants in New Jersey by offering accessible and affordable services regardless of immigration status. Here are a few ways in which community health centers support this vulnerable population:

1. Culturally Competent Care: Community health centers often have staff members who are culturally sensitive and understanding of the unique challenges faced by undocumented immigrants. This helps create a welcoming and supportive environment for patients seeking healthcare services.

2. Sliding Fee Scale: Many community health centers offer a sliding fee scale based on a patient’s income, making healthcare more affordable for undocumented immigrants who may not have health insurance or qualify for government assistance programs.

3. Comprehensive Services: Community health centers typically provide a wide range of services, including primary care, dental care, mental health services, and preventive care. This holistic approach ensures that undocumented immigrants can access the healthcare services they need in one location.

4. Language Assistance: Community health centers often have interpreters or bilingual staff members who can help overcome language barriers, ensuring effective communication between healthcare providers and patients.

Overall, community health centers play a vital role in bridging the gap in healthcare access for undocumented immigrants in New Jersey by offering culturally competent care, affordable services, comprehensive care, and language assistance.

10. How does immigration status impact eligibility for public health programs in New Jersey?

1. In New Jersey, immigration status plays a significant role in determining eligibility for public health programs. Undocumented immigrants are generally not eligible for federal programs such as Medicaid, Medicare, or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) due to their immigration status.
2. However, New Jersey has taken steps to provide access to healthcare for undocumented immigrants through state-funded programs. For example, the New Jersey FamilyCare program allows undocumented immigrants to access coverage for emergency services, prenatal care, and family planning services.
3. Additionally, some counties in New Jersey have implemented their own programs to provide healthcare services to undocumented immigrants, such as free clinics or low-cost primary care services. These initiatives aim to bridge the gap in healthcare access for undocumented immigrants who do not qualify for federal programs.
4. It is important to note that the availability and scope of healthcare services for undocumented immigrants in New Jersey may vary depending on the county and specific program eligibility criteria. Advocates continue to push for expanded access to healthcare for all residents, regardless of immigration status, to ensure that everyone can receive the care they need to stay healthy.

11. What are the implications of the Affordable Care Act on healthcare access for undocumented immigrants in New Jersey?

1. The Affordable Care Act (ACA) has had both direct and indirect implications on healthcare access for undocumented immigrants in New Jersey. While undocumented immigrants are not eligible to purchase insurance through the ACA marketplace or qualify for Medicaid under the ACA, there have been some positive impacts on their access to care.

2. One significant impact is the establishment of community health centers that receive federal funding through the ACA. These health centers provide care to all individuals, regardless of immigration status, helping to bridge the gap in access to healthcare for undocumented immigrants.

3. Additionally, the ACA has expanded preventive services at no cost-sharing, which benefits undocumented immigrants who can access services such as vaccinations and screenings without financial barriers.

4. The ACA also includes provisions that aim to strengthen the healthcare system as a whole, which indirectly benefits undocumented immigrants by improving overall access to care and reducing healthcare disparities.

5. However, despite these positive impacts, undocumented immigrants still face significant barriers to accessing healthcare in New Jersey due to their legal status. Many providers may still require proof of insurance or legal residency, leading to discrimination and reluctance to seek care.

6. Furthermore, the fear of deportation and concerns about accessing healthcare services in a hostile political climate can deter undocumented immigrants from seeking the care they need, even when services are available to them.

7. Overall, while the ACA has made some strides in improving healthcare access for undocumented immigrants in New Jersey, there is still a long way to go in ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their immigration status, can access the care they need without fear or barriers.

12. How do social determinants of health impact the healthcare access of undocumented immigrants in New Jersey?

Social determinants of health play a significant role in shaping the healthcare access of undocumented immigrants in New Jersey. These factors include socioeconomic status, immigration status, language barriers, lack of health insurance, fear of deportation, and limited access to culturally competent care.

1. Socioeconomic Status: Undocumented immigrants often work in low-wage jobs with limited benefits, making it difficult for them to afford healthcare services.

2. Immigration Status: Undocumented immigrants are not eligible for most public health insurance programs, limiting their access to affordable healthcare options.

3. Language Barriers: Limited English proficiency can hinder communication with healthcare providers, leading to misunderstandings and inadequate care.

4. Fear of Deportation: Many undocumented immigrants avoid seeking healthcare out of fear of being reported to immigration authorities.

5. Limited Access to Culturally Competent Care: Healthcare facilities may not be equipped to provide culturally competent care to undocumented immigrants, leading to disparities in treatment and outcomes.

Addressing these social determinants of health is crucial in improving healthcare access for undocumented immigrants in New Jersey. Policymakers, healthcare providers, and community organizations play a vital role in advocating for policies that break down barriers and ensure equitable access to healthcare for this vulnerable population.

13. What are the ethical considerations involved in providing healthcare to undocumented immigrants in New Jersey?

Providing healthcare to undocumented immigrants in New Jersey raises several ethical considerations that need to be addressed:

1. Health Equity: One of the primary ethical considerations is ensuring that all individuals, regardless of immigration status, have equitable access to healthcare services. Undocumented immigrants often face barriers to accessing healthcare services due to their legal status, which can lead to disparities in health outcomes.

2. Justice: There is a moral obligation to provide healthcare to all individuals in need, regardless of their immigration status. Denying healthcare services to undocumented immigrants can perpetuate inequality and violate the principles of social justice.

3. Human Dignity: Upholding the human dignity of undocumented immigrants requires recognizing their inherent worth and providing them with access to essential healthcare services. Denying healthcare to this population may undermine their dignity and lead to unnecessary suffering.

4. Public Health: Ensuring that undocumented immigrants have access to healthcare is not only a matter of individual health but also a public health concern. Lack of access to healthcare for this population can result in the spread of infectious diseases and other health risks that affect the broader community.

5. Legal and Policy Implications: Providing healthcare to undocumented immigrants may raise legal and policy implications, as there are federal and state regulations that govern the provision of healthcare services to individuals without legal status. Healthcare providers must navigate these complexities while upholding ethical standards.

In conclusion, addressing the ethical considerations involved in providing healthcare to undocumented immigrants in New Jersey requires a commitment to health equity, justice, human dignity, public health, and adherence to legal and policy requirements. Healthcare providers and policymakers must work together to ensure that all individuals, regardless of their immigration status, have access to the care they need to maintain their health and well-being.

14. How do healthcare disparities affect undocumented immigrants in New Jersey compared to other populations?

Healthcare disparities have a significant impact on undocumented immigrants in New Jersey compared to other populations. This is primarily due to the lack of access to affordable healthcare services for undocumented immigrants, which often leads to delayed medical treatment and poorer health outcomes. Undocumented immigrants in New Jersey face multiple barriers to accessing healthcare, including:

1. Limited or no health insurance coverage: Undocumented immigrants are not eligible for Medicaid or subsidies under the Affordable Care Act, making it difficult for them to afford healthcare services.

2. Fear of deportation: Many undocumented immigrants are hesitant to seek medical care due to fears of being reported to immigration authorities while seeking treatment, which further deters them from accessing healthcare services.

3. Language and cultural barriers: Undocumented immigrants may face challenges in communicating with healthcare providers and navigating the healthcare system due to language and cultural differences, leading to misunderstandings and inadequate care.

4. Limited availability of culturally competent care: Undocumented immigrants may struggle to find healthcare providers who understand their unique healthcare needs and cultural backgrounds, impacting the quality of care they receive.

Overall, these disparities in healthcare access and quality contribute to poorer health outcomes for undocumented immigrants in New Jersey compared to other populations, highlighting the urgent need for policies and programs that address these barriers and promote healthcare equity for all individuals, regardless of immigration status.

15. What are some strategies to address the mental health needs of undocumented immigrants in New Jersey?

Some strategies to address the mental health needs of undocumented immigrants in New Jersey include:

1. Culturally Competent Mental Health Services: Provide mental health services that are culturally sensitive and appropriate for the diverse backgrounds of undocumented immigrants in the state. This can include hiring bilingual staff, incorporating cultural practices into therapy, and understanding the unique stressors faced by this population.

2. Accessible and Affordable Care: Increase access to mental health care for undocumented immigrants by providing sliding scale fees, free services, or partnering with community health centers and nonprofits to offer counseling and therapy at reduced costs.

3. Mental Health Education and Outreach: Conduct outreach programs to educate undocumented immigrants about mental health, reduce stigma surrounding seeking help, and provide information on available resources and services in the community.

4. Trauma-Informed Care: Recognize and address the trauma experienced by many undocumented immigrants due to their migration journey, fear of deportation, and separation from family. Providing trauma-informed care can help individuals process their experiences and promote healing.

5. Advocacy and Policy Change: Advocate for policies that prioritize the mental health needs of undocumented immigrants, such as expanding access to Medicaid for all residents regardless of immigration status, providing funding for mental health services specifically for this population, and addressing barriers to care.

By implementing these strategies, mental health providers, policymakers, and community organizations can work together to ensure that undocumented immigrants in New Jersey receive the support and care they need for their mental health.

16. How do emergency departments in New Jersey handle healthcare access for undocumented immigrants?

Emergency departments in New Jersey are required by federal law to provide emergency medical care to all individuals, regardless of their immigration status. This means that undocumented immigrants can seek treatment at these facilities in case of medical emergencies.
1. Emergency departments in New Jersey cannot deny treatment to undocumented immigrants based on their immigration status.
2. Undocumented immigrants may receive care in emergency departments for emergency medical conditions, but they may not have access to non-emergency services such as preventative care or routine check-ups.
3. However, undocumented immigrants may face barriers to accessing healthcare services beyond emergency care due to their lack of health insurance and legal status.
4. Some hospitals in New Jersey may offer financial assistance programs or charity care for undocumented immigrants who are unable to pay for their emergency medical services.
5. Overall, emergency departments in New Jersey play a crucial role in providing healthcare access to undocumented immigrants in urgent medical situations.

17. What healthcare rights do undocumented immigrants have in New Jersey?

Undocumented immigrants in New Jersey have limited healthcare rights compared to documented residents. Here are some key points to consider regarding healthcare access for undocumented immigrants in New Jersey:

1. Emergency Medical Care: Undocumented immigrants have the right to receive emergency medical care under federal law, regardless of their immigration status. This means that they can seek treatment in emergency rooms for life-threatening conditions without being turned away.

2. Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs): Undocumented immigrants can access care at FQHCs, which receive federal funding to provide healthcare services to underserved populations. These health centers offer primary care, dental care, mental health services, and more to undocumented individuals.

3. State-funded Programs: New Jersey has implemented certain programs to improve healthcare access for undocumented immigrants, such as the New Jersey FamilyCare program. This program provides low-cost health coverage to children and pregnant women, regardless of immigration status.

4. Limited Coverage: Undocumented immigrants are not eligible for Medicaid or other federally funded health insurance programs. As a result, they often have to rely on community health centers, free clinics, or charity care programs for healthcare services.

5. Barriers to Care: Despite some access to healthcare services, undocumented immigrants in New Jersey face significant barriers to care, including fear of deportation, language barriers, lack of insurance coverage, and limited availability of culturally sensitive care.

In conclusion, while undocumented immigrants in New Jersey have certain healthcare rights, their access to care remains limited and challenging. Efforts to expand healthcare options for this vulnerable population are crucial to ensure the well-being of all residents in the state.

18. How do deportation fears impact undocumented immigrants’ willingness to seek healthcare in New Jersey?

Deportation fears have a significant impact on undocumented immigrants’ willingness to seek healthcare in New Jersey. Here are several ways in which these fears can affect access to healthcare for this population:

1. Fear of being reported to immigration authorities while seeking healthcare services can deter undocumented immigrants from accessing care. This fear can lead individuals to forgo necessary medical treatment, including preventive and urgent care services.

2. Concerns about the potential consequences of interacting with healthcare providers, such as being detained or separated from their families, can further discourage undocumented immigrants from seeking healthcare in New Jersey.

3. Limited awareness of available resources and support for undocumented immigrants in the healthcare system can also contribute to barriers in accessing care. Many undocumented individuals may not be aware of their rights or the existence of community health centers that provide services regardless of immigration status.

4. The overall climate of fear and uncertainty surrounding immigration policies can create a sense of mistrust towards healthcare institutions, making undocumented immigrants hesitant to disclose personal information or seek medical assistance.

In conclusion, deportation fears play a significant role in shaping the healthcare-seeking behaviors of undocumented immigrants in New Jersey, ultimately impacting their access to essential medical services. Efforts to address these fears and improve healthcare access for this vulnerable population are crucial in promoting public health equity and ensuring that all individuals receive the care they need, regardless of their immigration status.

19. What are the financial implications of providing healthcare to undocumented immigrants in New Jersey?

Providing healthcare to undocumented immigrants in New Jersey can have several financial implications:

1. Increased Costs: Providing healthcare services to undocumented immigrants can result in increased healthcare costs for the state. This includes expenses related to emergency care, primary care, and specialty services.

2. Uncompensated Care: Undocumented immigrants often lack health insurance coverage, leading to a higher prevalence of uncompensated care for healthcare providers. This can strain the finances of healthcare facilities and result in cost-shifting to other patients.

3. Legal and Administrative Costs: Implementing healthcare programs for undocumented immigrants may incur legal and administrative expenses for the state. This includes costs associated with eligibility verification, enrollment processes, and compliance with relevant regulations.

4. Medicaid Expansion: Some states, including New Jersey, have expanded Medicaid coverage to include undocumented children and pregnant women. While this expansion provides greater access to care, it also incurs additional costs for the state Medicaid program.

5. Public Health Impact: Providing healthcare to undocumented immigrants can have broader public health implications, such as reducing the spread of communicable diseases and improving overall community health outcomes. Investing in preventive care for this population may lead to long-term cost savings.

Overall, the financial implications of providing healthcare to undocumented immigrants in New Jersey require careful consideration of both short-term costs and long-term benefits for the state’s healthcare system and population health outcomes.

20. What are some policy recommendations to improve healthcare access for undocumented immigrants in New Jersey?

1. Implementing a state-funded health insurance program specifically tailored for undocumented immigrants in New Jersey can significantly improve healthcare access for this population. By providing coverage for essential healthcare services, such as preventive care, primary care visits, and emergency services, undocumented immigrants can receive timely and necessary medical treatment without fear of financial burden.

2. Strengthening partnerships between healthcare providers and community organizations that serve undocumented immigrants can also enhance access to care. By creating culturally sensitive and language-appropriate outreach programs, healthcare providers can better connect with this underserved population and provide education on available healthcare services.

3. Increasing funding for community health centers and safety-net hospitals that serve undocumented immigrants is essential for expanding access to care. These facilities often serve as the primary source of healthcare for undocumented immigrants, and additional resources can help them expand their services, reduce wait times, and improve the quality of care provided.

4. Advocating for policies that remove barriers to healthcare access, such as restrictions on Medicaid eligibility based on immigration status, can also help improve healthcare access for undocumented immigrants in New Jersey. By ensuring that all individuals have access to affordable healthcare coverage regardless of their immigration status, the state can promote health equity and improve overall population health.

In conclusion, implementing a combination of state-funded insurance programs, strengthening community partnerships, increasing funding for safety-net providers, and advocating for policy changes can help improve healthcare access for undocumented immigrants in New Jersey. By addressing these key areas, the state can work towards ensuring that all residents have access to the healthcare services they need to lead healthy and productive lives.