"Today's rule is a giant step forward for this country toward a more equitable and inclusive health care system, and means that Americans across the country now have a clear way to act on their rights against discrimination when they go to the doctor, talk with their health plan, or engage with health programs run by HHS," said Secretary Xavier Becerra in a press release.
This rule reverses Trump-era restrictions that eliminated federal health protections for LGBTQ people, expanding safeguards to prevent potential discrimination against gay and transgender Americans seeking medical care. The rule also aims to reduce barriers to language access, improve physical and digital accessibility, address bias in health technology, and more, by taking decisive action against discrimination based on race, color, national origin, sex, age, and disability.
"CMS is steadfast in our commitment to providing access to high-quality, affordable health care coverage for millions of people who represent the vibrant diversity that makes America strong," CMS Administrator Chiquita Brooks-LaSure said in a statement.
"Today's rule is another important step toward our goal of health equity - toward the attainment of the highest level of health for all people, where everyone has a fair and just opportunity to attain their optimal health," Brooks-LaSure added.
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