Protecting Access to Spiritual Treatment

Summary#

This bill would change Title XVIII of the Social Security Act to require certain health care providers to let a patient have a member of clergy visit if the patient asks. The new rule would start on January 1, 2028. It says the provider must allow a clergy member chosen by the patient to have access, even if an emergency waiver under section 1135 is in effect. The clergy member must follow safety measures and other protocols that the Secretary of Health and Human Services sets, after talking with providers, States, and religious groups.

What it means for you#

• If you are a patient getting care from a provider covered by Title XVIII (Medicare-related providers), you could request that a clergy member you choose be allowed to visit you.
• If you are a health care provider that accepts Medicare, you would be required to allow a designated clergy member access to a patient who requests it, while ensuring the clergy member follows any required safety protocols.
• If you are a clergy member, you could be permitted to visit patients who designate you, but you must follow the safety and other protocols the Secretary specifies.

Expenses#

No publicly available information.

Proponents' View#

No publicly available information beyond the bill text describing the requirement to allow clergy access.

Opponents' View#

No publicly available information.