Requiring providers of services to provide patients access to clergy

Section 1866(a)(1) of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395cc(a)(1)) is amended— (1) in subparagraph (X), by striking and at the end; (2) in subparagraph (Y), by striking the period and inserting, and; and (3) by inserting after subparagraph (Y) the following new subparagraph: (Z) beginning January 1, 2028, upon request of an individual receiving items and services from such provider and notwithstanding any waiver under section 1135, to allow a member of clergy designated by such individual access to such individual, provided that such clergy member adheres to such safety measures and other protocols as may be specified by the Secretary (in consultation with providers of services, States, and religious organizations)..