Practice tip of the week: What to do if ICE arrives at your practice

With all the useful information available on Physicians Practice, it is easy to become overwhelmed.

With this in mind, the tip of the week is a chance to reflect on some of the wisdom found all across the site. This October article on protecting your office if U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrives at your practice seeking information, staff or a patient, gives this tip:

3. Learn to spot the right kind of warrant

Understanding the difference between an administrative warrant and a judicial warrant can prevent serious missteps.

“An administrative warrant, the kind ICE usually carries, does not authorize entry into private spaces,” Russell said. Those documents are often labeled with “I-” numbers or DHS and ICE seals. Only a judicial warrant—signed by a judge and featuring a court heading—authorizes entry into restricted areas.

Because the two can look similar, Russell recommends regular staff training with sample warrants. “We show practices what these documents look like so no one feels pressured to make a split-second call.”

Click here to read the rest of the article and be sure to check back next week for another Tip of the Week!