ALL EMPLOYEE MESSAGE: Guidance for Interactions with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Agents

You may have seen recent media coverage regarding U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), which may have raised questions about what to do if ICE arrives at Cook Children’s.

This communication aims to provide important helpful guidance information for our valued employees regarding interactions with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents or other state or federal agencies. We understand that interactions with law enforcement can sometimes be intimidating or make one uneasy. We want to assure you that such situations are unlikely to occur at Cook Children's. However, it's important to be prepared and understand our policies in such circumstances.

At Cook Children's, we value a culture of respect and kindness toward all. Please remember our Promise as we make efforts to treat everyone with dignity and compassion.

Cooperation with Authorities

As responsible members of the health care community, we are committed to cooperating with requests from local, state and federal agencies. However, we will always strive to protect the privacy and safety of our patients and staff while adhering to all applicable laws and regulations.

Long-Standing Policy

This guidance aligns with our long-standing policies, including Policy Number CC-260, "Government Investigation and Response to Government Requests. ”This policy outlines our procedures for cooperating with investigations while upholding patient confidentiality and attorney-client privilege. If you have questions about this policy, please visit with your supervisor.

Key Points:

~ Do Not Obstruct or Interfere: Employees should not obstruct or interfere with any lawful governmental investigations.

~ 3 IMPORTANT STEPS to know if you are approached by an ICE agent, or any officer investigating an immigration issue:

1. Verify the credentials of the agent or officer: Immediately ask for a badge to verify the credentials of the investigator(s) and identify the agency they represent.
2. Contact the Legal Department: For any Cook Children’s location, please contact the operator at 682-885-4000 and ask for the attorney on call. When you call, please provide your contact information as well as your supervisor’s contact information, in case Legal, Security or others need to follow up with you.
3. Contact your direct supervisor for awareness.

~ NOTE: The Legal Department will collaborate with internal departments and determine whether access shall be granted to documents and/or facilities. On the rare occasion when a federal agency, including ICE, arrives on premises, they will most likely present a subpoena or a warrant.  Institutional information and/or access will not be provided without proper verification of an agent’s legal authority in compliance with applicable laws and CCHCS policy.

Patient Confidentiality:

• Refer all requests for patient information from an ICE agent to the Legal Department.
• Do not provide any patient information to agents unless:
  • You are instructed by the Legal Department to do so (e.g., pursuant to a valid court order, warrant or subpoena); or
  • You have obtained proper authorization from the patient family.

Remain Calm and Professional: Maintain a calm and professional demeanor throughout any interaction with law enforcement.

We value your dedication to providing the highest quality care to our patients and appreciate all you do for Cook Children’s.