MEDICAL ETHICS DEFENSE ACT – Adds to existing law to establish the Medical Ethics Defense Act.

Idaho's H 59, the Medical Ethics Defense Act, protects healthcare providers' right to refuse participation in or payment for medical procedures conflicting with their conscience. It directly affects doctors, nurses, pharmacists, hospitals, clinics, and insurance payers by allowing them to object based on religious, moral, or ethical beliefs without facing discrimination or retaliation. Key provisions require written notice of objections to employers and prohibit adverse actions like termination for conscientious refusal, while clarifying that this does not override duties to provide non-conflicting care. The law defines "health care provider" broadly to cover all medical professionals and institutions, ensuring they can decline specific services - such as certain prescriptions or procedures - without penalty.