Does the Military Pay for Sex Change Surgery?
The military has made significant strides in recent years to support the well-being and inclusivity of its service members, including those who identify as transgender or gender non-conforming. One of the most significant questions on the minds of transgender individuals considering a career in the military is: does the military pay for sex change surgery?
What is the Military’s Policy on Transgender Service Members?
In 2016, the Department of Defense (DoD) lifted its ban on transgender individuals serving in the military, allowing transgender individuals to serve openly and authentically. However, the policy has undergone changes and updates since then. As of 2020, the DoD’s policy states that transgender individuals are allowed to serve, but they must undergo a medical evaluation and meet specific medical standards before being accepted into service.
What are the Medical Requirements for Transgender Service Members?
To be eligible to serve in the military, transgender individuals must meet certain medical requirements. These requirements include:
- Being at least 18 years old
- Being a U.S. citizen
- Meeting the military’s physical and mental fitness standards
- Undergoing a medical evaluation to determine the individual’s suitability for military service
- Receiving a waiver from the DoD’s Surgeon General
Does the Military Pay for Sex Change Surgery?
Now, to answer the question directly: yes, the military does pay for sex change surgery, but with certain conditions. The DoD’s policy states that sex change surgery is considered a medically necessary procedure for transgender individuals who are serving in the military or are considering a career in the military.
Types of Sex Change Surgery Covered by the Military
The military covers the following types of sex change surgery:
- Male-to-Female (MTF) Surgery: This type of surgery involves reconstructive procedures to create a feminine appearance, including breast augmentation, facial feminization, and genital reconstruction.
- Female-to-Male (FTM) Surgery: This type of surgery involves reconstructive procedures to create a masculine appearance, including breast removal, facial masculinization, and genital reconstruction.
How Does the Military Cover Sex Change Surgery?
The military covers sex change surgery through the Military Health System (MHS). The MHS is a comprehensive health care system that provides medical care to military personnel and their families. The MHS covers sex change surgery as a medically necessary procedure, which means that the military will pay for the surgery if it is deemed necessary for the individual’s health and well-being.
What are the Eligibility Requirements for Sex Change Surgery Coverage?
To be eligible for sex change surgery coverage, individuals must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Transgender Service Members: Transgender individuals who are currently serving in the military or are considering a career in the military are eligible for sex change surgery coverage.
- Medical Necessity: The individual must have a medical diagnosis that indicates the need for sex change surgery, such as gender dysphoria or gender incongruence.
- Medical Evaluation: The individual must undergo a medical evaluation to determine their suitability for sex change surgery.
- Surgeon’s Recommendation: The individual’s surgeon must recommend the surgery as medically necessary.
What are the Out-of-Pocket Costs for Sex Change Surgery?
While the military covers sex change surgery as a medically necessary procedure, individuals may still be responsible for some out-of-pocket costs. These costs may include:
- Co-payments: Individuals may be required to pay a co-payment for the surgery, which can range from $20 to $50 per visit.
- Deductibles: Individuals may be required to pay a deductible for the surgery, which can range from $100 to $500.
- Prescription Medications: Individuals may be required to pay for prescription medications used to treat any complications related to the surgery.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the military does pay for sex change surgery, but with certain conditions. Transgender individuals who are serving in the military or are considering a career in the military are eligible for sex change surgery coverage if they meet the eligibility requirements. The military covers sex change surgery as a medically necessary procedure through the Military Health System, and individuals may still be responsible for some out-of-pocket costs.
Additional Resources
- Department of Defense. (2020). Transgender Military Service.
- Military Health System. (2020). Transgender Care.
- Veterans Affairs. (2020). Transgender Healthcare.
Table: Military Coverage for Sex Change Surgery
| Type of Surgery | Coverage | Eligibility Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Male-to-Female (MTF) | Covered | Transgender service members, medical necessity, medical evaluation, surgeon’s recommendation |
| Female-to-Male (FTM) | Covered | Transgender service members, medical necessity, medical evaluation, surgeon’s recommendation |
| Breast Augmentation | Covered | Transgender service members, medical necessity, medical evaluation, surgeon’s recommendation |
| Facial Feminization | Covered | Transgender service members, medical necessity, medical evaluation, surgeon’s recommendation |
| Genital Reconstruction | Covered | Transgender service members, medical necessity, medical evaluation, surgeon’s recommendation |
Bullets: Additional Information
- The military’s policy on transgender service members is subject to change.
- The military’s coverage for sex change surgery is subject to change.
- Transgender individuals who are considering a career in the military should consult with a medical professional to determine their eligibility for sex change surgery coverage.
- Transgender individuals who are currently serving in the military should consult with their healthcare provider to determine their eligibility for sex change surgery coverage.
