Tennessee House votes on Medical Ethics Defense Act amid concerns over patient care

Tennessee's Health Committee made significant strides in addressing healthcare ethics during its recent meeting on March 25, 2025. The committee voted unanimously in favor of House Bill 830, which aims to enhance patient participation in healthcare decisions, particularly for those with qualifying conditions. This legislation is designed to prepare Tennessee for potential changes in federal cannabis laws, allowing the state to proactively develop a program that aligns with any future federal guidelines.

In addition to this, the committee discussed House Bill 1044, known as the Medical Ethics Defense Act. This bill seeks to protect healthcare providers' rights to refuse participation in procedures that conflict with their moral, ethical, or religious beliefs. It includes provisions for conscience protection, whistleblower protections, and ensures that healthcare payers cannot deny payment for services they are contractually obligated to cover. However, the bill explicitly does not apply to emergency situations or federally mandated procedures.

The discussion surrounding House Bill 1044 sparked a robust debate, particularly from healthcare professionals like Dr. Amy Gordon Bono, who expressed concerns that the bill could undermine patient trust and lead to a deterioration of the patient-provider relationship. Dr. Bono emphasized that the legislation could allow providers to prioritize personal beliefs over patient care, potentially exacerbating existing issues within the healthcare system.

The committee's actions reflect a growing trend in state legislatures to navigate the complex intersection of healthcare ethics and personal beliefs. As these bills move forward, their implications for both healthcare providers and patients in Tennessee will be closely monitored, with the potential for significant impacts on the state's healthcare landscape.