How would you classify the relationship between Section 1557 and patients’ rights?

Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act is designed to protect individuals from discrimination in health care settings based on race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability. By establishing these protections, Section 1557 enhances patients' rights by ensuring equitable access to health services. It empowers patients to seek redress if they experience discrimination, thereby reinforcing their rights to receive fair and equal treatment within health care systems.

This provision is intended to strengthen and support the rights of patients, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to access quality health care without facing barriers due to discriminatory practices. As a result, patients have a greater assurance that their rights are recognized and safeguarded in the health care system, which aligns with broader goals of health equity and justice.