Oregon — The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) issued a statement condemning recent actions and practices by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), asserting that they pose risks to the safety and well-being of immigrant communities and patients in Oregon’s healthcare system.
According to ONA, frontline nurses at Legacy Emanuel Medical Center have reported concerns regarding the treatment of detainees brought to the facility in recent months. Nurses described inconsistencies between Legacy’s established protocols and ICE’s on-site practices, including questions about patient rights, documentation, and adherence to hospital policy.
The association said these discrepancies raise broader issues involving patient safety, legal compliance, and the privacy protections guaranteed under federal law. ONA also stated that immigrants—many of whom serve as nurses, caregivers, and essential healthcare staff—may avoid seeking medical attention when enforcement activity creates fear or uncertainty.
On Tuesday, ONA formally notified Legacy Emanuel’s leadership of its concerns and requested a meeting within 14 days to address reported gaps between policy and practice. The organization outlined several recommended steps, including verifying ICE credentials, strengthening documentation of law-enforcement interactions, ensuring detainees receive information about their rights, limiting officer presence during clinical care, and centralizing health-information disclosures.
The association also called for protections for staff who raise concerns and for the creation of a joint labor–management group to oversee related issues.
ONA said its goal is to ensure hospitals remain focused on patient care rather than law enforcement activities. The organization urged healthcare executives and elected leaders to support clearer policies, enforce compliance, and safeguard the rights of all patients regardless of immigration status.
Representing more than 24,000 healthcare professionals in Oregon, ONA said it will continue advocating for patient safety, privacy, and dignity.
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