Why Won't Insurance Companies Cover the Costs of Detransitioning? David Marcus Asks
Chloe Cole, a detransitioning individual and activist, expressed her dissatisfaction with the medical professionals who she believes have failed young people like her, during an interview with Fox News Digital. One of the most deceptive terms coined in the 21st century, according to critics, is "gender-affirming care." Critics argue this phrase masks the reality that it often refers to irreversible medical procedures carried out on children grappling with their gender identities.
Increasingly, young people are detransitioning and accepting their biological sex, seeking medical aid to undo the changes they previously pursued when they believed they could alter their gender. This form of "gender-affirming care" merits widespread support.
A recent study revealed that two-thirds of children struggling with gender dysphoria change their minds upon reaching adulthood. This statistic raises questions about the prudence of allowing children to medically transition. What about those who have undergone chemical or surgical procedures and later regret their decision?
Cole, who has emerged as a vocal detransitioning advocate, began her medical transition at age 12, a decision that her doctors supported wholeheartedly. A few years later, when she attempted to reverse the transition, she faced numerous obstacles. Cole described the difficulties that both she and others in her situation have encountered:
"The same medical system that previously encouraged them suddenly neglects them. They grapple to access the necessary mental health care and treatments, and they and their families struggle to find health insurance that covers their medical needs. Instead, they face hefty out-of-pocket expenses for years to come."
It appears that insurance companies are willing to finance gender transitions, but reluctant to fund the reversal of these procedures.
Arizona State Senator Janae Shamp proposed a bill last year mandating insurance companies to cover detransitioning expenses. Shamp criticized these companies for not even establishing diagnostic codes for detransitioning, indicating that political ideologies are influencing medical practices.
In North Carolina, Prisha Mosley is suing the doctors responsible for her gender transition procedures. Her lawsuit alleges that these medical professionals deceived and exploited her for their financial gain and professional advancement.
Despite mounting detransitioning cases, the medical community and the media often display indifference or even hostility towards such instances. This dismissive attitude seems to suggest that despite the potential for regret, the alteration of minors' bodies should continue unabated.
It is about time for Congress to enact laws requiring insurance companies that cover gender transitions to also cover detransitioning. This is a matter of basic common sense.
Moreover, legal obstacles such as the statute of limitations should be removed for those who were misled by medical professionals more focused on ideological stances than patient welfare.
American public opinion on trans issues has progressed significantly over the past decade, with the majority asserting that there are only two genders and that men should not participate in women's sports. Our laws need to reflect this reality.
Moreover, the system facilitating gender transitions in children needs to be challenged comprehensively, not only through litigation but by ensuring that detransitioning costs are covered.
As America emerges from a period of confusion and begins to recognize the potential harm of irreversible medical procedures on children, it is crucial to ensure that those who have undergone such procedures have access to the resources they need to reverse what can be reversed.