Governor Cuomo Takes Decisive Action to Ensure Insurance Coverage for Transgender and Gender Nonconforming Individuals.
Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced health insurers cannot discriminate or deny coverage based on gender identity. This action will ensure that transgender or gender nonconforming individuals receive coverage regardless of whether they present as the gender to whom the service is typically or exclusively provided. A Department of Financial Services circular letter issued today instructs health insurers to take reasonable steps, including requesting additional information, to determine whether the insured is eligible for the services prior to denying a claim. This announcement builds upon Governor Cuomo's comprehensive actions to support health insurance access for all New Yorkers, including previous guidance instructing insurers that they may not deny medically necessary treatment for gender dysphoria.
"In New York, we believe that health care is a right, and we are committed to protecting that right for all New Yorkers, regardless of income, age, race, sexuality or gender identity," Governor Cuomo said. "Now, more than ever, we are leading the nation in furthering protections to all New Yorkers that those in Washington seek to eliminate, and we will continue to work to combat discrimination in all forms and ensure equal treatment for all."