H.R. 2874: Defense of Conscience in Health Care Act

This bill is titled the Defense of Conscience in Health Care Act. It aims to establish regulations that protect "conscience rights" in the health care sector. Here are the key points of what the bill proposes:

Key Provisions

• Issuance of Final Rule: Within six months of the bill's enactment, the Secretary of Health and Human Services is required to issue a final rule that aligns with a previous rule from July 22, 2019. This previous rule, outlined in part 88 of title 45 of the Code of Federal Regulations, focuses on protecting the conscience rights of individuals in health care settings.
• Superseding Existing Rules: The new final rule will state that it supersedes any existing regulations that conflict with it at the time of its issuance. This ensures that the protections of conscience rights as defined by this bill take precedence over earlier regulations.
• Definition of Conscience Rights: The term "Federal conscience and anti-discrimination laws" is defined in line with the previously stated regulations that are referenced in the bill.

Purpose of the Bill

The purpose of this legislation is to reinforce the rights of individuals and entities within the health care industry to act according to their conscience, especially in situations where they may be asked to provide services or participate in practices that go against their personal beliefs or moral convictions. This primarily encompasses professionals such as doctors, nurses, and health care institutions.

Implications

If enacted, the bill could lead to more defined protections for health care providers who refuse to participate in certain medical procedures, treatments, or services based on their moral or religious beliefs. Such actions may include, but are not limited to, decisions surrounding abortion, euthanasia, and certain contraceptive services.

Relevant Companies

• UNH (UnitedHealth Group): As a major health insurance provider, changes in conscience protection regulations may affect UnitedHealth's policies concerning coverage and provider networks.
• HCA (HCA Healthcare): As one of the largest health care providers, HCA may face implications in how it responds to staff who invoke conscience rights in clinical settings.
• CNC (Centene Corporation): Like UnitedHealth, Centene may need to adjust its coverage and provider requirements in light of the bill's emphasis on conscience rights.