Several new federal rules expanding nondiscrimination protections for individuals with disabilities are approaching their 2026 compliance deadlines. These have significant implications for many medical practices and health systems. In 2024, the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) finalized the updates to Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, which governs “Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Disability in Programs or Activities Receiving Federal Financial Assistance.”
The rule is intended to strengthen protections against discrimination and ensure individuals with disabilities have an equal opportunity to participate in programs or activities funded by the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Among the many new requirements, the most impactful include:
With compliance deadlines rapidly approaching, medical practices should take a proactive approach to analysis, planning, and implementation to mitigate risk and ensure continued access to care for all patients. To better understand these new requirements and how they impact your practice, please review the resources below.
Resources
The contents of The Sentinel are intended for educational/informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. Policyholders are urged to consult with their personal attorney for legal advice, as specific legal requirements may vary from state to state and/or change over time.
