Section 1557 (non-discrimination)

Section 1557 is a federal law that prohibits discrimination in healthcare based on race, color, national origin, sex (including gender identity and sexual orientation), age, or disability. It ensures that everyone has equal access to healthcare services and cannot be treated unfairly or differently because of these characteristics. Healthcare providers must offer respectful, accessible, and nondiscriminatory care to all patients. The law promotes fairness and equality in medical treatment and coverage, aiming to eliminate barriers that could prevent people from receiving quality care.