New federal bill bans unequal health care and creates equity scoring for hospitals

What does this do?

This bill would make it illegal for health care providers to treat patients differently based on race, sex, age, disability, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin. Patients could file complaints with a renamed federal office, the Office for Civil Rights and Health Equity, or take their case to court. Starting in 2026, hospitals would be measured and financially scored on how equally they treat different groups of patients.

Who does it affect?

Patients from minority, low-income, elderly, or other historically underserved groups would gain new legal tools to challenge unequal treatment. Hospitals and doctors that accept Medicare or Medicaid would face new reporting requirements and possible penalties, while hospitals serving large numbers of low-income patients would be first in line for federal grants.

Why does it matter?

Hospitals that repeatedly provide unequal care could be removed from Medicare and Medicaid, unless doing so would reduce access to care in low-income areas. A new Federal Health Equity Commission would track progress and report to Congress and the President each year on how well health care gaps are being closed.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• Federal grants for low-income hospitals
• May fund bias training & translation
• No dollar amounts specified

Where does it stand?