Orchiectomy in my future?

[Phoenix]

The VA’s policy on trans surgeries has been one of “NOPE.”

 

They do everything “before and after,” but no surgeries. 
 

They do so love their red tape (bureaucratic BS), though. Their policy on electrolysis, for example, basically reads like “We don’t do electrolysis for transgender patients, unless they need it to better fit in as their preferred gender.” That… pretty much describes any transwoman veteran, since we all go through puberty long before enlisting.

 

Their policy on orchiectomies is just as red-tapey as they don’t generally perform one unless the HRT isn’t being tolerated by the patient.

 

Well, overall I’m handling my HRT meds well enough. But I’ve always had issues staying hydrated. First it was because I drank nothing but soda. Then it’s because of a urology issue. Now, it seems it’s because of the diuretic nature of the spiro. I sent my endocrinologist a secure message Thursday night inquiring about an orchiectomy on those grounds. 
 

I know the VA is under directive to reverse their previous stances on trans surgeries, but that doesn’t happen overnight. So I was pretty surprised… stunned… and elated when I received this.

 

I mean it’s not a guaranteed surgery date or anything. But it’s far less pushback than I was expecting.

[Phoenix]

1 hour ago, gina-nicole-t said:

@Phoenix I am not Vet, but I have my own insurance that "says" it will pay for electrolysis only if I submit the paperwork to them which could get denied. It also says it will pay for an orchi and vaginoplasty, but until I actually  have consults I have no idea. I know that Regence Blue Cross PPO, United Health Care, and a couple of others will pay for other surgeries if you are interested. 

 

Gina Nicole Thompson

I signed up for Blue Cross/Blue Shield, which classifies any trans procedure (including electrolysis) as “medically necessary” and, therefore, covered. All I need is two letters from my docs stating they are indeed medically necessary.

 

My LGBT coordinator/transition counselor has basically lined up any letter I need. All I have to do is say when and what procedure. I already got my letters for my legal name and gender marker change. For all the issues with the VA, maybe LGBT coordinator/transition counselor is absolutely awesome.

 

Me: ”I need a letter for…”

 

Him: “Here you go.”

[Carolyn Marie]

Phoenix, it really is up to your endo.  If they say that it's "medically necessary," then it will likely be approved.  If they don't use the "magic words" then its going to be a lot tougher.  I wish you luck.

 

Carolyn Marie

[Phoenix]

3 hours ago, Carolyn Marie said:

Phoenix, it really is up to your endo.  If they say that it's "medically necessary," then it will likely be approved.  If they don't use the "magic words" then its going to be a lot tougher.  I wish you luck.

 

Carolyn Marie

Oh I know. That was my point, though. He’s already proven he’ll give me whatever letter I need when I need it.

[Willow]

My situation is a little different, but worth a run through.  Yes I am a vet, honorable discharge.  But I don’t have a disability, I don’t have a Purple Heart, and I didn’t serve in Vietnam.  Consequently, I have almost no VA benefits.  Particularly no health benefits!

 

I am retired and on Medicare part C.  I have a BCBS plan.  According to that plan coverage, I get just about anything I need covered.  All I have to do is pay my normal copay 

 

my endocrinologist suggested an orchidectomy to me last summer, knowing that I had no desire for a vaginoplasty.  I got that orchidectomy and I’m please with the results.  
 

BUT,  it all depends on what plan you choose as to what benefits you get.  And if it’s an employer plan they can adjust the coverage to suit.

 

good luck. Keep trying, I found it to be worth it from the elimination of spironolactone, and reduction of other meds. It takes away some future risk and some immediate changes you already mentioned.

 

Willow

[Phoenix]

5 hours ago, Willow said:

My situation is a little different, but worth a run through.  Yes I am a vet, honorable discharge.  But I don’t have a disability, I don’t have a Purple Heart, and I didn’t serve in Vietnam.  Consequently, I have almost no VA benefits.  Particularly no health benefits!

 

I am retired and on Medicare part C.  I have a BCBS plan.  According to that plan coverage, I get just about anything I need covered.  All I have to do is pay my normal copay 

 

my endocrinologist suggested an orchidectomy to me last summer, knowing that I had no desire for a vaginoplasty.  I got that orchidectomy and I’m please with the results.  
 

BUT,  it all depends on what plan you choose as to what benefits you get.  And if it’s an employer plan they can adjust the coverage to suit.

 

good luck. Keep trying, I found it to be worth it from the elimination of spironolactone, and reduction of other meds. It takes away some future risk and some immediate changes you already mentioned.

 

Willow

When I “almost” has BCBS for 2022, it would’ve covered everything. But I chose a plan that might have had me paying more out of pocket than I was comfortable with. Being my first attempt at personal insurance plans, I pretty much had no idea what I was doing.

 

But after talking with the LGBT coordinator/transition counselor… I decided to cancel my insurance before the first payment. Prior to considering an orchiectomy, vocal surgery was the first procedure I figured on having and I might be a little further out from that than I originally thought. And if im not… we’ll I can pay for that surgery out of pocket if I have to.

[Desi]

Phoenix,

 

I also go though the VA. They said they approved my electrolysis  but could not find anyone in my area that could do it. Were you  able to get it done through your VA?

 

Desi