The US State Department has issued a directive to embassies worldwide, intensifying the screening process for visa and green card applicants with pre-existing health conditions. This policy aims to safeguard the American public from the financial burden of providing healthcare to immigrants. The directive highlights that certain medical conditions, such as cardiovascular diseases, respiratory illnesses, cancers, diabetes, metabolic disorders, neurological issues, and mental health conditions, can incur substantial healthcare costs, potentially amounting to hundreds of thousands of dollars. Applicants must now demonstrate sufficient financial resources to cover these expenses throughout their expected lifespan without relying on public assistance or government-funded long-term care. Guerline Jozef, director of the Haitian Bridge Alliance, has criticized the policy, warning that it could jeopardize the safety and eligibility of all immigrants seeking visas or green cards.