The HHS Office for Civil Rights (OCR) has published a notice requesting information to inform implementation of section 1557 of the ACA, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability under certain health programs or activities. The provision applies broadly to any health program or activity that is receiving federal financial assistance, or that is administered by an executive agency or entity established under Title I of the ACA (such as the Health Insurance Marketplaces/Exchanges). The request for information seeks information on a variety of issues involving individuals' experiences with discrimination in health programs or activities, along with covered entities' experiences in complying with federal civil rights laws. The notice also includes a series of questions related to ensuring access to health programs and activities for individuals with limited English proficiency (LEP), along questions regarding potential approaches to compliance and enforcement. Comments are due September 30, 2013.
This article is presented for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal advice.
