AHA supports HHS proposed rule on conscience protections

In comments submitted today, AHA encouraged the Department of Health and Human Services to finalize as written its proposed rule regarding statutory conscience protections.
“In 2018, the AHA offered a series of recommendations in connection with HHS’ rulemaking that year,” AHA wrote. “The proposed rule effectively incorporates those recommendations. In particular, if adopted, the rule would reduce regulatory burdens on hospitals, including especially onerous reporting requirements. More important, the proposed rule would respect hospitals’ time-tested methods of honoring their responsibilities to ensure access to necessary care for all patients, while protecting the religious and other conscience rights of employees and medical staff.”