James K. Reed, M.D., President and CEO of St. Peter’s Health Partners, and Richard J. Gilfillan, M.D., President and CEO of Trinity Health, shared the below memo:
To Our Colleagues and Our Community:
The White House on Friday, January 27 issued an Executive Order relating to refugees and immigration. The Executive Order imposes a 90-day ban on entry to the U.S. for nationals of the following seven countries: Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, and Yemen. This list might be expanded in the future. Trinity Health and St. Peter’s Health Partners (SPHP) are disappointed by this action because, like the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, we believe that welcoming refugees, immigrants and newcomers is an act of love and hope. This action is also contrary to our Mission to be a transforming healing presence in our communities.
Trinity Health and SPHP are monitoring this situation and identifying ways we can support our colleagues, affiliated physicians, clinicians, and caregivers who might be affected by the Executive Order. At this time, we urge colleagues in the United States who are nationals and/or citizens of the seven countries to consult an attorney to determine if they are subject to the Executive Order and what their travel risks may be. This might include green card holders, non-immigrant visa holders, and those with pending immigration applications.
Colleagues who are lawful permanent resident nationals of one of these countries, and are currently outside of the U.S., might be subject to increased vetting at the border and face difficulty returning. If you are a colleague in this situation, Trinity Health will provide legal counsel and other support you might need. Please contact Robert Swidler, vice president, Legal Services, SPHP, if you need support. (518-525-1499; Robert.Swidler@sphp.com)
While we may not be able to provide direct legal assistance, we also stand ready to assist affiliated medical staff members and affiliated clinicians who find themselves in this situation. Individuals affected can contact Robert Swidler, vice president, Legal Services, SPHP, if you require assistance. (518-525-1499; Robert.Swidler@sphp.com)
Trinity Health celebrates the diversity of our national team. We value the contributions of all colleagues and respect individuality, including race, color, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, and gender identity.
Trinity Health also remains fully committed to our patients, residents and the communities we serve. We will continue to care for people who seek our help, regardless of their background and immigration status.
We will provide additional updates as needed. If you have specific questions, please talk with your local HR Lead.
Thank you for your commitment to our Mission and our ministry.
Richard J. Gilfillan, M.D.
President and CEO
Trinity Health
James Reed, M.D.
President and CEO
St. Peter’s Health Partners
