Blog
Conscience Rights
June 22, 2009
So far there has been no decision by HHS regarding the Conscience Protection Rule. This delay may be due in part to the impressive show of support for the rule mentioned in April’s update. (Here is a link to a very interesting analysis of where we are and what might happen) The most important thing we can do now is keep the issue in the public’s eye. You can do this by writing op-ed pieces or letters to the editor of your local paper or medical journal. Here are 3 key points to cover:
- If applicable, describe your own experience in having your conscience rights threatened or violated;
- Emphasize that violating conscience and religious freedom will reduce, not increase access to health care, and will worsen, rather than improve, the physician-patient relationship;
- Explain that the public supports respect for conscience rights and wants patients to be able to choose physicians who share their beliefs and values (see attached poll data).
Here is a link with tips for writing a letter to the editor – http://www.freedom2care.org/action/page/publish-my-opinion
Here is a link with a summary of recent polling data – http://www.freedom2care.org/docLib/20090407_090408SurveyPressPacket.pdf
Remember, this issue is much more complex, and much less understood, than FOCA.
