HHS Proposed Rule on ACA Nondiscrimination

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has issued a proposed rule on the nondiscrimination section (ie, Section 1557, 42 USC 18116) of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA, PL 111-148).  This section of the ACA prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability in health programs and activities, any part of which receive Federal financial assistance.  The proposed rule includes prohibitions on gender identity discrimination, as well as requires reasonable steps to effectively communicate with individuals with limited English proficiency and with individuals with disabilities.  The proposed rule will be published in the September 8th issue of the Federal Register, and public comments are due by November 6th.  For additional information see the HHS Fact Sheet: Nondiscrimination in Health Programs and Activities Proposed Rule.