Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) covers Medicare Part A, Medicare Part C, and Medicare Part D. It does not however cover Medicare Part B. This is because Part B does not receive Federal financial assistance from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
What is Section 1557 of the ACA?
Section 1557 of the ACA has been in effect nationwide since 2016 after the ACA originally came into effect in 2010. Section 1557 makes it illegal for any person to endure discrimination, or denied access to health services, based on their race, color, nation of origin, sex, age, or disability by health programs and activities that receive any Federal financial assistance or are administered by an Executive agency or any entity under Title I of the Affordable Care Act.
Who Section 1557 of the ACA Applies to
This section applies to any health services that receive federal funding from the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), or any program or activity that HHS administers. Any health insurance marketplace and the plans offered in that marketplace are also expected to follow the guidelines set by Section 1557.
Who Enforces ACA Section 1557?
Section 1557 is enforced by the HHS Office for Civil Rights (OCR). OCR accepts and investigates reports of Section 1557 violations and complaints by those who feel as though they have been discriminated against due to one of the reasons listed by Section 1557.
If you believe that you have been the subject of discrimination on a basis covered by Section 1557 you can file a civil rights complaint.
The Consequences of Violating Section 1557
If a healthcare program is found in violation of Section 1557 the OCR may choose to either suspend or altogether terminate any federal financial funding from HHS. Physicians who engaged in the violation of Section 1557 may also be required to pay compensatory damages and are open to have legal action taken against them by the individual(s) who were the subject of the violating discrimination.
Find a Medicare Doctor Covered Under Section 1557
Using our Find Your Doctor tool you can easily find a Medicare doctor who complies with Section 1557 and practices value-based care.
Value-based care puts patients first. These doctors see fewer patients and are able to understand you on a higher level than other doctors, so they can treat your unique needs and improve your health.
With our value-based provider partners you can expect shorter wait times at the doctor’s office, quicker and easier appointment scheduling, and a real, meaningful connection with a physician that cares about your health.
