Texas Governor Greg Abbott has threatened to revoke government funding from Texas Children’s Hospital after a doctor’s viral TikTok video advised patients to skip answering a newly required citizenship question on hospital intake forms.
The controversy stems from an executive order issued by Abbott in August, which took effect on November 1. The directive mandates that hospitals receiving Medicaid or Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) funding ask patients, “Are you a U.S. citizen?” The goal, according to Abbott’s office, is to help the state seek federal reimbursement for medical care provided to immigrants, as reported by the New York Post.
Dr. Tony Pastor, a cardiologist based in Houston, sparked the debate with his now-deleted TikTok video, which amassed over 1 million views before its removal in early November. In the video, Pastor told viewers, “Just know that you do not have to answer this question.”
Pastor’s concerns, echoed during a media interview, highlighted the potential harm such a policy could inflict on patients. “It is basically isolating a group of people and making people scared to come in,” he said, speaking to KCEN-TV. “It’s a marginalized group that generally seeks care later, and they are sicker when they do come in.”
Abbott reacted swiftly, warning the hospital via a post on X (formerly Twitter): “Hey Texas Children’s Hospital & Baylor College of Medicine, this doctor is putting your Medicaid & Medicare funding at risk. You better think twice & have crystal clear records. There will be consequences for failing to follow the law in the Order.”
In response, Texas Children’s Hospital issued a statement emphasizing its compliance with Abbott’s order. The hospital distanced itself from Pastor’s remarks, stating: “While we recognize that individuals working at Texas Children’s hold their own personal views on many topics, those opinions do not necessarily reflect the official position of Texas Children’s Hospital. We will continue to prioritize patient care while ensuring we are in full compliance with all laws and legal directives.”
The debate extends beyond the hospital. Medical advocacy groups, including the San Antonio Metropolitan Health District, have supported advice similar to Pastor’s. A flyer from the public health agency assures patients: “You have a right to life-saving care, regardless of citizenship or immigration status; You do not have to answer the citizenship question if you don’t want to. Your answer will not affect your care – you will not be turned away.”
This issue highlights growing tensions over health care access and immigration in Texas, as critics argue that the new policy could deter vulnerable populations from seeking medical care. Abbott’s administration, however, insists that the order is a practical measure to secure federal funding.
