For many years, the LGBT community has known disparities in health system as they were denied the same rights as heterosexual Americans, have been found to have a high percentage of pre-existing medical conditions and have struggled to find affordable health insurance. Now, members of the LGBT community can have a sense of ease, as the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and recent Defense of Marriage Act decision bring new rights and health protection.
Under the ACA, the insurance companies can not discriminate based on gender identity or sexual orientation, which means that members of the LGBT community can not be denied coverage or pay more to be lesbians, gay, bisexual or transgender. In addition, health insurers can not limit how much money they will spend on health care, more than a year or a lifetime. For the first time, anyone living with a preexisting medical condition, including HIV / AIDS, can not be denied health insurance. These changes are important to the LGBT community that studies have shown that LGBT people suffer from chronic diseases that require long-term costs at a higher rate than other Americans.
Just as married heterosexual couples, same sex couples legally married, now have access to federal tax credits that lower the cost of insurance. Even if a gay or lesbian couple live in a state that does not recognize same-sex marriage, they can still jointly apply for federal tax credits. This victory for the LGBT community came in June 2014 when the Supreme Court of the United States has canceled part of the Defense of Marriage Act. This decision also allows married same-sex couples the right to visit their partner in the hospital and appoint a representative to make medical decisions on behalf of a patient.
Finally, under the new Medicaid expansion, more LGBT Americans will now qualify for Medicaid if their incomes fall below the poverty line. This expansion is important to the LGBT community because, according to a report by the Williams Institute, the LGBT community is more likely to live in poverty, especially men and transgender women because they are less likely to find a employment.
With all the changes Americans are facing, to find affordable comprehensive health plan can be frustrating and confusing. GoHealthInsurance provides certified counselors toll that can recommend and help consumers choose a plan that fits their lifestyle and needs. GoHealth licensed counselors can also see if you qualify for tax and apply them to cover your loans, ensuring that the effective and beneficial economic plan as is obtained. To compare health insurance options or to speak with a licensed counselor, visit GoHealth market.
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