Which Medicare programs are covered by ACA Section 1557?

• A. Parts A, B, and D, but not C
• B. Parts B, C, and D
• C. Parts A, C, and D, but not B
• D. Parts A, B, C, and D

Answer: (C)

Section 1557 bans discrimination in health programs and activities that are run by covered entities or that receive federal funds. Medicare Advantage (Part C) and the Prescription Drug Plans (Part D) are delivered through private plans that receive federal payments, so they fall squarely under 1557’s protections. Hospitals and other providers that participate in Medicare Part A are part of a Medicare-funded system and must treat patients without discrimination in the care they deliver, so Part A is covered as well. Traditional Medicare outpatient coverage, Part B, is a federal entitlement program administered directly by CMS rather than through a private plan or provider network that the statute treats as a covered entity, so it isn’t included under 1557 in the same way. That’s why Parts A, C, and D are covered, but not Part B.