Special Topics

The following topics may be useful in understanding how civil rights laws apply in certain areas:
		National Origin Discrimination is prohibited under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act. Information and assistance is available to recipients of Federal financial assistance from HHS about how to comply with this law.			Health Disparities are differences in rates of disease and differences in health outcomes that negatively affect certain racial or ethnic groups. OCR’s efforts to address discrimination in access to healthcare and in treatment are part of an HHS-wide effort to reduce such health disparities.

Adoption and Foster Care agencies and entities that receive Federal financial assistance cannot delay or deny foster care or adoption placements on the basis of race, culture, or ethnicity.

Limited English Proficiency may affect access to healthcare or social services for certain individuals or groups. OCR has issued guidance to clarify the responsibility of providers of health and social services who receive Federal financial assistance from HHS in serving Limited English Proficient (LEP) persons.

OCR’s Effective Communication in Hospitals Initiative is designed to give hospitals the tools, information, and other technical assistance they need to meet communication challenges, consistent with OCR’s mission to ensure that all persons have access to health care without facing unlawful discrimination. To ensure success and achieve the greatest impact, OCR is partnering with the health care community both at the national level and at the regional and state levels.

Paramedics wheel a patient from an ambulance

Emergency Preparedness Planning and Response is an issue of national concern. OCR is working closely with other HHS agencies to ensure that civil rights issues are addressed in planning, and has identified helpful information.