Maryland House Bill HB96

Maryland 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/12/22
• Refer: 1/12/22

Caption

Public Health - Nondiscrimination in Access to Anatomical Gifts and Organ Transplantation - Financial Status

Impact

If enacted, HB96 will amend existing laws relating to organ transplantation in Maryland. It will mandate that covered entities make reasonable modifications to their policies and practices to accommodate individuals with financial issues. This is a significant shift in health policy as it aims to eliminate financial barriers that have historically disadvantaged low-income patients, potentially leading to improved health outcomes for those affected by financial constraints.

Summary

House Bill 96 aims to address nondiscrimination in access to anatomical gifts and organ transplantation services based on an individual's financial status. The bill prohibits covered entities, including healthcare providers and facilities, from considering financial status when determining eligibility for organ transplants or related services. This legislative measure seeks to ensure that all individuals, regardless of their financial background, have equal access to life-saving medical procedures, thereby promoting fairness in healthcare access.

Contention

The bill may face opposition from some healthcare organizations that could be concerned about the implications of increased access requirements and potential financial burdens. Critics may argue that mandating universal access irrespective of financial status could create additional strain on healthcare resources and affect the prioritization of organ transplants. Supporters, however, are likely to counter these points by emphasizing the ethical obligation to provide equitable healthcare access to all individuals, advocating that the benefits of saving lives and improving health equity far outweigh the potential challenges.