Latine/DACA-From Undocumented Immigrant to Family Medicine Doctor: The IMPACT of DACA
In this episode, I share the inspiring journey of Dr. Duran, a family medicine resident who immigrated to the US from Mexico at the age of 14. Despite facing obstacles such as being undocumented and not having a Social Security number, Dr. Duran pursued higher education with the help of supportive individuals like her high school teacher, Mrs. Holland. We delve into the challenges Dr. Duran faced in financing her medical education and navigating the DACA program, as well as the impact it has on her mental health and career. We also discuss the importance of being curious and respectful when interacting with colleagues who may have experiences related to DACA. Join me in this thought-provoking conversation that sheds light on the resilience and determination of DACA recipients like Dr. Duran, who continue to contribute to their communities and the healthcare profession.
Chapters:
(0:00:00) – Achieving a Career in Medicine
(0:13:44) – Navigating DACA and Med School
(0:25:51) – DACA Impact on Mental Health
(0:34:48) – DACA’s Mental Health Impact
(0:42:08) – Be Curious and Respectful of Colleagues
Chapter Summaries:
(0:00:00) – Achieving a Career in Medicine (14 Minutes)
In this podcast episode, we discuss the journey of Dr. Duran, a family medicine resident who immigrated to the US from Mexico at the age of 14. Despite facing obstacles such as not having a Social Security number and being undocumented, Dr. Duran pursued higher education with the help of supportive individuals like her high school teacher, Mrs. Holland. Dr. Duran’s interest in medicine was sparked by witnessing the health disparities in Southeast Georgia, particularly among the immigrant community.
(0:13:44) – Navigating DACA and Med School (12 Minutes)
We delve into the challenges faced by Dr. Duran in financing her medical education due to her immigration status and limited financial resources. Through persistence and support from organizations like the Resurrection Project, she was able to obtain a loan and attend medical school. We also discuss the uncertainty and stress surrounding the renewal of her DACA status, which directly impacts her ability to continue her residency and work as a doctor. Despite these obstacles, Dr. Duran remains determined to excel in her profession and contribute to her community as a family medicine physician’
(0:25:51) – DACA Impact on Mental Health (9 Minutes)
We explore the impact of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program on Dr. Duran’s life and career, allowing her to fulfill her intellectual goals and become a doctor. The conversation also addresses the anxiety and vulnerability faced by DACA recipients due to the program’s uncertain future and the fact that the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services has all their personal information. Dr. Duran discusses her decision to be open and vocal about her immigration status, as well as the intergenerational effects of policies like DACA on recipients’ children.
(0:34:48) – DACA’s Mental Health Impact (7 Minutes)
We examine the history and limitations of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program and its effects on recipients like Dr. Duran. With over 800,000 DACA recipients and 1.3 million people living with a DACA recipient in the United States, the consequences of ending the program would be far-reaching. Despite providing temporary relief, DACA has significant constraints, such as no clear path to citizenship, limited travel permissions, and challenges in obtaining mortgages. Additionally, since July 2021, no new DACA applications have been accepted, and processing times for renewals can cause applicants to lose their status.
(0:42:08) – Be Curious and Respectful of Colleagues (1 Minute)
We emphasize the importance of curiosity and humility when interacting with colleagues who may have experiences related to the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. By listening to and learning from their stories, we can gain valuable insight and foster a more supportive and understanding healthcare community. Remember to approach these conversations with respect and genuine interest in their experiences, rather than simply satisfying personal curiosity
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