The physicians and medical students of the Massachusetts Medical Society (MMS) applaud the Massachusetts legislature for its strong leadership in enacting critical legislation that strengthens the state’s Shield Law. The law provides critical protections for patients seeking and physicians delivering reproductive and gender-affirming care, responding to growing threats that seek to interfere with decisions that belong to patients and their doctors.
Out-of-state legal actions seeking to criminalize care that is grounded in science, medical standards, and ethical practice have no place in the Commonwealth. This law affirms that Massachusetts will protect lawful, medically appropriate care – and the people who provide or receive it. Patients everywhere deserve the freedom to make informed decisions with their doctors and to access safe, timely, and compassionate care without fear.
-Olivia Liao, MD, President, Massachusetts Medical Society
