For many transgender and gender non-conforming people, it can be nerve-wracking to simply go to the doctor’s office because they do not know whether their doctor has ever worked with a transgender person, or if they will be met with intrusive and inappropriate questions and comments.
Additionally, transgender and gender non-conforming individuals often face difficulty accessing medical and mental health services partially because there is a lack of inclusive and accessible health insurance available. For example, Ohio has no explicit policy ensuring equal coverage for transgender people, and Medicare and Medicaid cover transition-related hormone therapy, but the specific procedures that are covered are still being determined.
Why is maintaining health and wellness often difficult for transgender and gender non-confirming people?
Transgender and gender non-confirming people often face compounding factors which can inhibit their health and well-being. Many transgender and gender non-conforming individuals face daily discrimination and harassment, which equates to significantly fewer employment opportunities for this community. These higher rates of unemployment and poverty often result in significant barriers to accessing health insurance and health care.
Can harassment and discrimination affect health?
- Yes. Research from agencies like the National Institutes of Health (NIH) demonstrates the negative impact on health outcomes of harassment and discrimination against transgender, gender nonconforming, and intersex people.
- Moreover, NIH has found that the introduction and passage of anti-transgender legislation can “exacerbate existing health disparities.” The American Psychological Association also points to the detrimental impact laws regulating gender-affirming care have on mental health.
- National ACLU recently published a research brief detailing the harmful effects of anti-transgender legislation on health and wellbeing, health-care access, economics, education, and safety.
What are the healthcare options for transgender and gender non-conforming Ohioans?
Fortunately, there are healthcare options for members of the transgender and gender non-conforming community throughout Ohio. Check out our list of healthcare resources for the Transgender and Gender Non-Conforming Community in Ohio.
DISCLAIMER – The information on this website is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. Every case depends on the specific facts and circumstances involved. To submit a complaint for review, please go to our Legal Help page.
