Investigation Ordered into Texas Hospital Over Maternity Services Ad
Texas Governor Greg Abbott has ordered an investigation into a hospital promoting a “South Texas Birth Package” aimed at pregnant foreign nationals, following a revelation that the advertisement was displayed in Spanish on a sign in Mexico, just near the U.S.-Mexico border.
The Mission Regional Medical Center confirmed its role in an ad campaign that listed prices starting at $3,950 for natural births and $5,525 for C-sections. The ads directed interested parties to a now-removed website, havemybabyinTEXAS.com.
The ad featured a phone number with the country code 001, which allows calls from Mexico to the United States.
A spokesperson for the hospital explained to Fox News that they had stopped using the marketing materials due to a misunderstanding. They also stressed that the hospital does not endorse any illegal activities and is committed to following state and federal laws.
The marketing effort included two billboards positioned about eight miles from the hospital, close to the border crossing. The hospital indicated that the ads were removed on Monday after images circulated online. Although the campaign began in 2021, the exact timing of the billboard installations was not disclosed.
In response, Abbott directed the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) to investigate the hospital for potential legal violations.
Abbott has been vocal about what he refers to as “birth tourism,” suggesting it takes advantage of the welcoming nature of the U.S. for international visitors. In a letter dated July 7, he expressed concern that some travelers come to the U.S. under false pretenses to give birth or obtain citizenship for their children.
The governor will also seek to collaborate with the Texas Legislature to bolster state laws against birth tourism in the upcoming legislative session, stating, “American citizenship is not for sale, and Texas will not permit our healthcare system to become a draw for this practice.”
Meanwhile, Kyle Brosnan, general counsel for the Surveillance Project, shared concerns about the implications of a recent Supreme Court ruling on birthright citizenship, suggesting it would intensify birth tourism. He described the only solution as strict investigations and deportations for those involved in illegal activities.
Mission Regional Medical Center expressed its intention to cooperate fully with state officials, emphasizing their commitment to providing quality healthcare for all patients seeking their services.
