The Massachusetts Medical Society has formally opposed the Conscience and Religious Freedom division formed within the federal department of Health and Human Services last week, saying it may compromise doctors’ ability to treat patients without discrimination.
“We will not and cannot, in good conscience, compromise our responsibility to heal the sick based upon a patient’s racial identification, national or ethnic origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, religious affiliation, disability, immigration status, or economic status. In view of this, the Massachusetts Medical Society is disappointed in and concerned by the Department of Health and Human Services’ formation (of the division),” Dr. Henry Dorkin, president of the MMS, said in a Jan. 18 statement.
The MMS is the statewide professional organization representing Bay State doctors.
Social conservatives have lauded the formation of the division, which they believe protects doctors from providing services conflicting with their religious beliefs, such as abortion, birth control access and hormone therapy for transgender patients.
Critics say the new division threatens access to health care for women and LGBTQ patients.
