Assessing the Challenges Latin Immigrant Populations Face in Accessing Healthcare and Proposing Solutions to Improve Accessibility

Access to healthcare is considered a basic human right, yet many Hispanic and Latin immigrant populations in the United States, especially those living in rural areas, face significant barriers that prevent them from receiving the care they need. These barriers include language differences, cultural misunderstandings, financial hardship, fear of legal consequences, and geographic isolation. This literature review explores the challenges that Hispanic/Latin immigrants aged 19-25 in rural areas encounter when trying to access healthcare, particularly preventative services. Drawing from a wide range of existing research, this thesis identifies how policy restrictions, social determinants of health, and systemic discrimination contribute to healthcare disparities in these communities. It highlights how fear and confusion caused by immigration enforcement policies, public charge regulations, and lack of clear healthcare rights often discourage even legally eligible individuals from seeking care. The review also examines how language barriers, medical mistrust, and limited access to nearby healthcare facilities further compound the problem, especially in under-resourced rural areas. Evidence shows that community-based interventions, culturally tailored programs, and trusted local organizations can make a meaningful difference. These solutions help bridge the gap between underserved communities and the care they need by offering support that is not only accessible but also culturally and linguistically appropriate. While this review offers valuable insights, it is limited by its reliance on previously published data and by its focus on rural areas, which may not fully reflect the experiences of Hispanic/Latin immigrants in urban settings or across diverse national backgrounds. Still, the findings point clearly to a path forward: more equitable, community-centered, and culturally competent healthcare systems that can better serve immigrant populations across the U.S.