The Trump administration’s travel ban on 19 countries is threatening to delay or cancel critical heart surgeries for at least a dozen Haitian children and young adults, aid groups warn.
The International Cardiac Alliance (ICA), which has facilitated life-saving cardiac procedures for over 100 Haitian children in the U.S., says the ban, effective Monday, has created widespread uncertainty and halted access to vital medical care.
The ban exempts certain travelers, such as lawful permanent residents and athletes attending global sporting events, but makes no allowances for medical cases like those supported by the ICA. The organization currently has a waitlist of more than 300 Haitian children and young adults needing heart surgery, with only a handful of surgical slots available in the U.S.
Executive Director Owen Robinson stressed the urgency: “Some might wait months, but others will die quickly without surgery.” The State Department’s ability to grant visa exemptions “in the national interest” remains unclear for these patients, and no official comment has been provided.
Many children travel through the U.S. en route to hospitals in the Dominican Republic or other countries. The ban disrupts this complex travel process, leaving families stranded. Fabienne Rene, 16, diagnosed with rheumatic heart disease, faces postponed surgery due to the ban, a devastating blow to her family who rely on the ICA for treatment unavailable in Haiti.
Medical experts highlight that rheumatic heart disease is common in impoverished countries due to untreated infections, and that escalating gang violence and instability in Haiti have halted international medical missions. Dr. John Clark, a pediatric cardiologist, described how worsening conditions prevent surgeons from safely operating in Haiti, increasing reliance on foreign care.
The ban also impacts patients like 16-year-old Andrice Boncoeur, who requires follow-up surgery in the U.S. after a temporary procedure in the Dominican Republic. His family has exhausted resources and fears for his life as his condition worsens.
Advocates call on the administration to make medical exceptions, emphasizing these children are “somebody’s child” deserving urgent care. Without swift action, lifesaving treatments remain out of reach for vulnerable Haitian youth.
