Kreidler reminds insurers that state law prohibits gender identity discrimination
The state Insurance Commissioner reminded health insurance carriers this week that discriminating against a patient based on gender identity is illegal.
Commissioner Mike Kreidler wrote a letter to carriers this week that said in part: “Broad exclusions of coverage on the basis of gender identity continue to be prohibited under Washington state law. Additionally, denial of a medically necessary service on the basis of gender identity remains prohibited under Washington state law.”
The letter was prompted by the Trump administration’s announcement that it will get rid of protections in the Affordable Care Act for transgender patients.
“The coronavirus pandemic is far from over, with cases rising across the country. Instead of expanding access to care to everyone who needs it, this president is once again attacking the most vulnerable among us,” Kreidler said in a statement Wednesday.
“The Supreme Court just issued a ruling that protects transgender people from discrimination in the workplace. They also should not be denied access to health care.”
Kreidler’s statement went on to say: “The president was elected to represent all Americans. This dangerous policy will harm millions of transgender people in our country who already face higher rates of violence, homelessness, unemployment, lack of medical care and suicide rates than cisgender people. Washington state has a long-standing reputation of protecting the health and lives of all its residents, regardless of gender or gender identity and that reputation stands.”
This story was originally published June 26, 2020 at 11:14 AM.
