Protecting Access to Spiritual Treatment and Organized Religion...
To amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to require providers of services to provide patients access to clergy.
HB9851 aims to change Medicare by requiring healthcare providers to give patients access to spiritual care from clergy. This bill, known as the Protecting Access to Spiritual Treatment and Organized Religion Act of 2026, seeks to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act. It would ensure that patients have the opportunity to receive spiritual support from religious leaders as part of their healthcare services.
This change would primarily affect patients enrolled in Medicare, particularly those who might benefit from spiritual care as part of their overall health treatment. By allowing access to clergy, the bill hopes to support patients' mental and emotional well-being, which can be an important part of their recovery and health maintenance.
HB9851 was introduced on July 22, 2026, and has been referred to the Committee on Ways and Means and the Committee on Energy and Commerce for further consideration. These committees will review the bill to assess its implications and decide on the next steps in the legislative process.
