What is Transgender Inclusive Care?
Transgender inclusive care is defined in state law as “health care that is consistent with the standards of care for individuals who identify as Transgender, Gender Diverse, or Intersex (TGI). It ultimately honors an individual’s bodily autonomy, treats people with respect, and does not make assumptions about an individual’s gender.” Understanding your rights is critical to living a healthy and safe life. The (TGI) Inclusive Care Act protects the rights of Californians to be able to receive Gender-Affirming health care services. The following are a few healthcare rights, commercial, and Medi-Cal healthcare plans made available in California:
- Coverage of basic health care services
- Having timely access to care
- Keeping an individual’s medical information private
- Getting a doctor’s second opinion
Transgender Individuals Denied Medicaid: An Overview
Many transgender individuals face unique challenges when trying to receive the medical care necessary for a healthy and safe life. They are often denied coverage for gender-affirming treatments they may need. Some gender-affirming treatments include the following:
- Hormone therapy
- Surgeries
- Mental health services
The denial of these services for transgender individuals is incredibly harmful to their physical and mental well-being. Additionally, excluding transition-related care from those who need it raises serious concerns about sex discrimination and civil rights violations.
The Tax Bill: Ban Medicaid from Covering Transition-Related Care
The House passed what is known as the tax bill, banning Medicaid coverage for transgender care. It would also ban plans under the Affordable Care Act’s exchanges from covering that care as an essential benefit. This would ultimately jeopardize access to healthcare for transgender individuals. What was only going to be a bill that would have prohibited Medicaid from covering gender transition procedures for minors has now been modified to remove the word “minor,” as reported by The Independent. This bill could impact many transgender individuals across the United States, as they are not receiving the proper health care and benefits that are crucial to them.
Why Transition-Related Care is Important
Trans-related care is vital and helps align an individual’s body and experience with their gender identity. Gender affiirmng care improves the mental health of many trans individuals, and studies have shown that, as a result, it reduces suicide, depression, and anxiety for trans patients.
How KAASS LAW Can Help
Navigating the legal challenges of being denied medically necessary healthcare services can be challenging and highly detrimental to one’s daily life. At KAASS LAW, we understand the struggles and barriers transgender individuals face when seeking the gender-affirming care they deserve. Our professional attorneys protect the rights of all individuals regardless of gender or sexual orientation. If you’ve been denied coverage for gender-affirming care, we can help.
Conclusion
Access to inclusive healthcare is a right, not a privilege. With recent changes in the healthcare system, it can be challenging to get the support and benefits from Medicaid you may need. If you or someone you know has been denied medically necessary services, KAASS LAW is here to help. Contact KAASS LAW today for a confidential consultation.