If Diagnosed with Gender Dysphoria - what changes in life? Life Ins etc.

[Brianna C]

I’m pretty sure I will be diagnosed with Gender Dysphoria. But besides actually able to start transitioning (which I want HRT)  are there down sides to actually being diagnosed with it on my medical records? 

 

 1. Will this affect my life insurance?

 

2. Will My medical premiums be affected if I ever need to buy health insurance myself; instead of going through my employer.  

 

3. Is it considered a “pre-existing condition”?  

 

4. Can it be removed later in life from my medical records? 

 

I’m wondering if I should just pay out of pocket for HRT if there are serious financial consequences. 

 I’m afraid I may not even like HRT and it would be all for nothing. 

 

Anyone regret being “officially” diagnosed?

 

Dont get me wrong... I’m excited! But these questions are weighing on my mind.

 I’m probably just paranoid.

Add that to my diagnosis! Paranoia... Lol 

 

Thanks!!

[Willow]

Brianna, I was recently diagnosed with gender dysphoria.  I too was initially excited about the possibility of starting HRT thinking it could solve some long term issues.  When the day came, I backed down.  My regret was the reaction of my wife and the future reactions of others.

 

as for your insurance questions I’m not an insurance expert.  However, the affordable care act and even Trumps stated goals for a replacement don’t permit insurance companies to exclude prior medical conditions as long as there is no lapse in coverage.

 

Willow

[Jani]

Hello Brianna and welcome to the forum.  Good questions all.  

 

I think once you fully transition (name and gender change, etc) and notify your life insurance company there may be a minor change but probably not.  

 

Buying health insurance on your own rather than through your employer would be expensive and would not provide as broad coverage.   I have new insurance this year and my Endo is in the network now so the appointments are covered but I pay for E out of pocket.  I don't believe it is pre-existing until it has been noted on your record.  It's not a big deal, don't worry about it.  My therapist coded my visits for treating anxiety not GD, my Endo is treating a hormone imbalance.   The insurance company will see medical codes since this is what they base payments on but your actual records are private.  HIPAA laws cover that.  

 

If thats you in the avatar, you seem young and you look pretty.  You will do well. Take a deep breath and relax a little. 

 

Cheers, Jani

[VickySGV]

8 hours ago, Brianna C said:

I’m afraid I may not even like HRT and it would be all for nothing. 

 

HRT and your reaction to it is actually being used as a diagnostic tool in some places.  If you get relief from GD with them it affirms that you need them, and you will know soon enough for the effects to be reversible if they do not.  You do not absolutely need them to be Trans however.  Your state is a problem area for Trans people on several levels due to its political climate and your best answer would have to come from your insurance carrier or your employer / union. 

[Brianna C]

Thank you all for your responses; you have set my mind at ease