Medicaid, a federal and state program designed to help cover medical costs for those with limited income, will soon begin covering sex reassignment surgery.
Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker demanded that Medicaid start covering the surgeries for transgender people, who have been diagnosed with gender dysphoria.
Pritzker said, “Healthcare is a right, not a privilege, and I’m committed to ensuring our LGBTQ community and all Illinoisans have access to that right,” he continued, “Expanding Medicaid to cover gender affirming surgeries is cost effective, helps avoid long term health consequences, and most importantly is the right thing to do. With continued attacks coming from Washington, this administration will always stand with our transgender community and their right to lead safe and healthy lives.”
If that wasn't bad enough, the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) is praising the ludicrous decision.
Illinois ACLU LGBTQ and HIV Advocacy Director John Knight stated, “We welcome Governor Pritzker’s announcement that Illinois will cover gender affirming surgery under its Medicaid program. This is a crucial step to respond to the health care needs of all Illinois residents, including those who are transgender."
He continued, “By putting an end to this outdated exclusion on gender affirming surgery, Illinois now joins a long and growing list of states providing coverage for this critical, life-saving health care. We applaud the Governor for making this important step forward.”
Illinois News Network reports:
The proposed rule, the administration said, would allow Medicaid members 21 and older diagnosed with gender dysphoria to be eligible for genital and breast-related surgeries.
About 1,400 of the state's 3.1 million Medicaid members are diagnosed with gender dysphoria, according to a news release from the governor's office. Last year, about 2,500 prescriptions for hormone therapy were covered.
Coverage could be available starting this summer after a public comment period.
A pregnant woman on Medicaid cannot even get blood tests to check the genetics of her unborn child (such as abnormalities and gender) without paying thousands out of pocket, but people confused about their gender can get a free sex change?
I guess it pays to be mentally ill in a liberal society, huh?
