HHS OCR Finalizes Changes to Nondiscrimination Rules

The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office for Civil Rights (OCR) on April 26 released a rule updating regulations implementing nondiscrimination provisions under Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act (P.L. 111-48, PDF, and P.L. 111-152, PDF).   

Notably, the OCR finalized policies that clarify the prohibition of discrimination on the basis of sex inclusive of sexual orientation and gender identity, as well as an individual’s current perceived, potential, or past marital, parental, or family status. The AAMC submitted comments to the department in support of policies intended to eliminate discrimination in health care that contribute to inequities in health status and outcomes [refer to Washington Highlights, Oct. 5, 2022]. 

The rule is effective July 5.