Medical Providers May Not Deny Medical Care Based on Disabilities

The New York Times reports: “Federal civil rights office rejects rationing medical care based on disability or age.”

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ civil rights office told medical providers on Saturday that they may not deny medical care to people on the basis of their disabilities or age during the coronavirus emergency.

“Our civil rights laws protect the equal dignity of every human life from ruthless utilitarianism,” Roger Severino, the office’s director, said in a statement. “Persons with disabilities, with limited English skills, and older persons should not be put at the end of the line for health care during emergencies,” the statement continued.

This comes as a relief to our SOFT families and families everywhere as the US battles the Coronavirus Pandemic. Hopefully this can help quell concerns for our families. Stay home and stay healthy. SOFT is with you.