today the department of health and human services released a final rule that allows insurance companies, pharmacies, nurses and doctors, and other entities to refuse care to patients. it is outrageous that the department charged with making our country healthy would make discrimination against patients acceptable. patients deserve to be treated free of judgment and to have access to the critical care they need and deserve. additionally, it is unconscionable that institutions receiving government funds – paid for by taxpayers – can be permitted to deny care to those that need it. this rule will impact already marginalized groups, making it particularly difficult for women and the lgbtq community. we have seen already seen instances of individuals prevented from accessing the morning-after-pill, or being shamed and refused care for their gender identity.  this rule shows that the administration finds such treatment acceptable. personal beliefs should never dictate the quality of care that a patient receives.