NHeLP Supports Historic Modernization of Section 504 Regulations
Washington, DC – Yesterday, the Biden-Harris Administration released a proposed update to Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Section 504), a federal law that prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability in programs and activities that receive Federal funding or are conducted by a Federal agency, including hospitals and healthcare providers that accept Medicaid or Medicare.
“The National Health Law Program (NHeLP) strongly supports this historic modernization of Section 504 regulations. As the first update to Section 504 regulations since 1977, the proposed rule addresses many important topics, including the accessibility of web, mobile apps, and self-serve kiosks in the delivery of health care; ensures medical equipment at physical offices is accessible to people using wheelchairs or mobility aids; and prohibits the use of discriminatory assessment methods that devalue disabled individuals’ lives when evaluating the cost-effectiveness of medical treatments. Such methods, still in common use, can prevent people with disabilities from accessing critical treatments just because they have a disability.
“NHeLP thanks the Biden-Harris Administration for demonstrating their commitment to protecting the civil rights of people with disabilities. NHeLP is currently reviewing the proposed rule, and hopes to provide partners and other stakeholders with information and opportunities to comment in the coming weeks.” — Jennifer Lav, NHeLP Senior Attorney
More information on the proposed Section 504 can be found at www.acl.gov/504rule
Reporters interested in speaking with attorneys at the National Health Law Program regarding the 504 Rule should contact Andy DiAntonio, Director of Communications, at [email protected].
