Since the signing of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) in 2010, Section 1557 has protected patients from discrimination in healthcare. It specifically prohibits healthcare providers and insurers that receive federal funding from discriminating against individuals based on:
- Race
- Color
- National Origin
- Sex
- Age
- Disability
Section 1557 safeguards patients from discrimination in various healthcare settings, including health centers, hospitals, and telehealth services. This includes refusing treatment or providing unequal care.
