Texas Gov. Greg Abbott has directed the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) to immediately investigate Mission Regional Medical Center following reports that the South Texas hospital markets “birth packages” to foreign nationals.
The investigation centers on allegations of so-called birth tourism, in which foreign nationals travel to the United States to give birth so their children automatically receive U.S. citizenship under the Constitution's birthright citizenship provisions.
In a letter sent Tuesday to HHSC Executive Commissioner Stephanie Muth, Abbott called for a "thorough investigation" into the hospital's practices.
“Birth tourism is an illegal practice that exploits the extraordinary hospitality that the United States and Texas offer to millions of foreign travelers each year,” Abbott stated.
Abbott said the investigation is necessary to protect the integrity of U.S. citizenship and ensure state resources are not being misused.
According to reports cited by the governor, Mission Regional Medical Center has promoted maternity care packages aimed at foreign nationals seeking to give birth in Texas. State officials have not released details on the number of patients who may have participated in the program or any financial information related to the alleged services.
HHSC's review will examine whether the hospital complied with applicable state and federal laws. Investigators are also expected to scrutinize the facility's licensing, billing practices, and any marketing materials directed toward international clients.
Mission Regional Medical Center released the following statement:
Mission Regional Medical Center is committed to providing high-quality, compassionate healthcare and expanding access to care for the communities we serve. Like hospitals across the country and throughout the region, we share information about the healthcare services we provide. We do not support or facilitate any unlawful activity and work to comply with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations. The marketing materials regarding maternity services are no longer in use due to any unintended misunderstanding. We intend to work cooperatively and transparently with local and state officials. Our focus remains on delivering safe, high-quality care to every patient who seeks our services.
The investigation comes amid ongoing debate over birth tourism in Texas and across the country. Critics argue the practice places additional strain on local healthcare systems and is intended to circumvent the original purpose of U.S. immigration laws. Supporters of increased oversight have also called for hospitals to prioritize care for Texas residents rather than offering packaged maternity services to non-residents.
The issue has also attracted attention in the Texas Legislature, where lawmakers have discussed proposals related to surrogacy and the use of reproductive services by foreign nationals.
