While different patients may need different treatments, rights and privileges should be equal. This week, we’re taking big steps forward to improve the health and well-being of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) patients and their loved ones.
Couples take a vow to be with each other in sickness and in health, and it is unfortunate that, in the past, some same-sex partners were denied the right to visit their loved ones in times of need. Hospital visits from loved ones are key to a patient’s recovery. And patients should be able to focus on their recovery process without worrying about whether their loved one will be admitted to their hospital room. With this in mind, we’ve released guidance for enforcing new rules that give all patients, including those with same-sex partners, the right to choose who can visit them in the hospital. The guidance also addresses the enforcement of other rules that govern the right of patients to choose who will help make medical decisions on their behalf should they become incapacitated. This is intended to make it easier for family members, including a same-sex domestic partner, to make informed care decisions for loved ones who have become incapacitated.
Fonte: White House