Canadians are expressing mixed opinions online about the government’s decision to fund up to $75,000 in gender-affirming procedures for federal employees.
The Trudeau government is assisting transgender employees in federal public service with gender-affirming procedures up to $75,000 per lifetime, beginning July 1, 2023.
Changes to the Public Service Health Care Plan (PSHCP) by the Treasury Board, introduced back on Aug. 8, 2023 and modified earlier this month, address increases in funding for massage therapy, vision care, and physiotherapy.
The Canada Life Assurance Company will also begin administering additions with the intent of covering medically necessary interventions not covered by provincial health plans for people on their gender affirmation journeys.
The changes come into effect beginning July 1, and federal employees are eligible for up to $75,000 in regards to gender-affirming procedures.
Gender-affirming care is used to describe procedures and hormone therapy that align a patient’s body and physical presentation with their gender identity.
The Treasury Board does not specify cosmetic procedures that are considered medically necessary which may range from electrolysis, liposuction to facial masculinization and feminization surgery. Although some trans activists consider these as life-changing care, among many others.
To be considered for coverage in Canada, individuals must be over the age of 18 years old, exhaust all available coverage offered by the province or territory of residence, undergo all procedures considered necessary by the attending physician or nurse practitioner and submit and receive an approved Gender Affirmation Application Form.
While many are in support of the funding, some believe the money could be used for other programs.
