FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Statement attributable to:
Bruce Siegel, MD, MPH
President and CEO
America’s Essential Hospitals
WASHINGTON—With its decision to end protections against discrimination in health care for LGBTQ and other vulnerable people, the administration puts the health and safety of these populations at risk and creates a climate for disparities in health and health care access.
Essential hospitals embrace the fundamental principle that discrimination has no place in health care. They close gaps in care and reduce disparities among vulnerable populations, including the LGBTQ community and individuals with limited English proficiency. Our hospitals care for all people—and they will continue to do so, despite the administration’s ill-considered decision.
This policy change sets the nation back in its work to build greater equity in health care. Although no time would be right for this decision, it is especially harmful now, during the ongoing COVID-19 public health emergency. There is no policy justification for this change, and we strongly urge the administration to reconsider its position.
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About America’s Essential Hospitals
America’s Essential Hospitals is the leading champion for hospitals and health systems dedicated to high-quality care for all, including the most vulnerable. We support our 300 members with advocacy, policy development, research, and education. Communities depend on essential hospitals to provide specialized, lifesaving services; train the health care workforce; advance public health and health equity; and coordinate care. Essential hospitals innovate and adapt to lead the way to more effective and efficient care. Learn more at essentialhospitals.org.
Contact:
Carl Graziano
cgraziano@essentialhospitals.org
202.585.0102
Author