U.S. health care reform and trans health care

[Tessa James]

Here is a bit more info about the Blue Cross health care plan in California


http://insuremekevin.com/2013/09/15/anthem-blue-cross-releases-transgender-health-plan-benefits/

[aleon515]

I don't have a link, but apparently the IRS confirmed that transgender care is tax deductible. At least there's that.

Oh thanks for the info. VERY good info. Would probably make a difference in that I am having top surgery this year.

--Jay

[Flan]

I don't have a link, but apparently the IRS confirmed that transgender care is tax deductible. At least there's that.

Genital surgery is but not much else X)
http://www.ustaxcourt.gov/InOpHistoric/odonnabhain.TC.WPD.pdf

[Cindy Stephens]

I didn't read the entire ruling, but remember when the ruling came out.  The synopsis I read, at the time, indicated that this particular case concerned genital surgery and the ruling was made on that point only.  I think that there was some discussion that if other types of transition expenses were litigated then they might be allowed also.  Beard removal, FFS etc.  You just have to reach the same standards with professional opinions.  Of course I might be wrong. And if the deduction is taken it may end in litigation.

[Murbella]

Here is a bit more info about the Blue Cross health care plan in California


http://insuremekevin.com/2013/09/15/anthem-blue-cross-releases-transgender-health-plan-benefits/

Tessa!  That is awesome, I was just about to start researching if BCBS covered this and you have linked me right to it!!!

Thank you so much


Edit: though I may still be in an odd position as I live in Oregon and work for a company that is based out of California and so is the health insurance... Yay for awkward phone conversations to come

[Lo]

Here's the tax link that I have, with some interesting discussion in the comments: http://transgenderequality.wordpress.com/2012/01/06/irs-affirms-that-transition-related-care-is-tax-deductible/

[Lo]

Holy cannoli, Anthem Blue Cross in California has confirmed that they will provide transgender benefits. Here's the deets:

http://insuremekevin.com/2013/09/15/anthem-blue-cross-releases-transgender-health-plan-benefits/

(Maybe this would be better in the News section?)

[Murbella]

Looks like I'm covered

Dear  [Murbella]:

Thank you for your e-mail inquiry dated  09/17/2013.

In answer to your question Transgender Benefits is a covered benefit under your plan. Pre- Authorization is required.  We will follow our Anthem Medical policy guidelines.

Transgender Reassignment coverage includes Surgery, Mental Health Support and Prescriptions.

In-network coverage is at 90% of the maximum allowed amount, subject to your in-network deductible of. In-network providers are required to accept the maximum allowed amount for services covered by your policy. Out-of-network coverage is at 70% of the maximum allowed amount, subject to the out-of-network deductible. Please be advised that an out-of-network provider can bill you for any difference between the maximum allowed amount and the actual billed amount.

Please verify with the provider, at the time of service, that they are still contracted as PPO participating. This will ensure you receive the in-network level of benefits for your date of service.

Please contact your employer for a hard copy of your complete benefits.

All services are based in medical necessity.

Verification of benefits or coverage is not a guarantee of eligibility or payment. Actual payment based on the terms and conditions of the plan.

If you need further assistance, please feel free to e-mail us at your convenience.

Follow us on Twitter to get timely tips and tools to better understand how to use your health care plan.

Sincerely,
Xxx

[Tessa James]

Alright!  Good follow up on your part!

Hope that adds a bit of security to your family situation