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HB 5371

AN ACT CONCERNING HEALTH CARE ACCESSIBILITY FOR PERSONS WITH A DISABILITY.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Hector Arzeno and 2 co-sponsors

Connecticut bill addressing health care accessibility barriers for people with disabilities; referred to Public Health Committee for consideration.

REF. TO JOINT COMM. ON Public Health
#disabledpersons #medicalcare #publichealth #departmentof
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Bill Summary · HB 5371

Legislative bill overview

HB 5371 addresses health care accessibility barriers for people with disabilities in Connecticut. The bill was recently referred to the Joint Committee on Public Health as of January 16, 2025, but the specific provisions have not yet been publicly detailed in available legislative materials. Based on the title, it likely proposes measures to remove obstacles people with disabilities face when accessing medical services, treatment, or preventive care.

Why is this important

People with disabilities encounter documented barriers to health care including physical accessibility issues, communication challenges, provider bias, and transportation difficulties. These barriers result in delayed diagnoses, missed preventive care, and worse health outcomes for a vulnerable population. Legislation addressing these systemic gaps can improve health equity and reduce long-term public health costs.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and implementation burden: Healthcare providers may argue that accessibility requirements create unfunded mandates, particularly for smaller practices or rural facilities
  • Scope definition: Disagreement may arise over which accessibility standards apply (physical access, technology, accommodations, interpreter services) and whether requirements are reasonable or overly prescriptive
  • Insurance and coverage: Questions could emerge about whether the bill requires insurance coverage changes or places obligations on payers versus providers

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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