Implications of U.S. Immigration Restrictions on Medicare

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Presenter(s)

Chloe Tan

Abstract or Description

Given the bleak projections regarding the vitality of Medicare within the next decade, significant, long term, and swift changes are required to replenish and stabilize this system in which millions rely on. The aim of this study is to analyze available data and research representative of foreign-born and U.S. born financial contributions to Medicare. This issue was examined through the lenses of relevant legislation, U.S. population characterized by age, and trust fund expenditures and contributions. Methodologies were derived from the model by Zallman et al. (2013). Data retrieval tools such as the Current Population Survey and Medical Expenditures Panel Survey were used to calculate trust fund contributions and expenditure data, respectively. These numbers were further described based on nativity and foreign-born statuses. The data was analyzed using descriptive analysis comparing varying contributions among native-born and foreign-born to their expenditures. The proportion of contributions and expenditures among foreign-born to U.S. born citizens showed greater amount in withdrawals from a larger population of U.S. senior citizens. Additionally, an increasing gap of HI revenue versus expenditures further supports the need for the stability of a larger working population that immigration can provide.​