How to Navigate Health Insurance as an LGBTQ+ Californian

Let’s be honest: most of us would rather be scoring concert tickets or making brunch plans than adulting. We get it. Some plans are just more fun to make than others.

But taking care of your health is part of living your best life. And for LGBTQ+ Californians, having coverage can help you get the care you need, from regular checkups and prescription drugs to mental health care, sexual health services, preventive care, and more.

It can also help protect your finances. Monthly premiums may sound like a lot of money, until you take a look at what health care costs. Without insurance, setting a broken leg can cost up to $7,500. Plus, in California, residents are required by law to have qualifying health coverage, qualify for an exemption, or pay a penalty when filing state taxes.

Covered California, a free service from the state, is the place to get financial help on plans from top health insurance companies. Through Covered California, you can get a plan from trusted health insurance companies like Kaiser Permanente, Anthem Blue Cross, Blue Shield of California, and more. Four out of five people who enroll in a health plan through Covered California qualify for financial help. You can learn how financial help works here.

You can shop and compare plans like you’re looking for travel deals. No need to sign up. And when you’re ready to enter the group chat, you can start an application.

Yes, getting covered can feel like a lot. But you don’t have to figure it out alone.

The LGBTQ+ community faces real barriers when it comes to accessing care. A survey from HRC revealed that 51% of transgender or nonbinary individuals have encountered “one or more types of mistreatment” with providers. Plus, one in five LGBTQ+ adults have put off getting care due to “disrespect or discrimination.”

You deserve care that sees you, supports you, and treats you with dignity.

We know that being an ally is more than a Pride-ified logo; it’s about showing up every day of the year. Covered California is here to help LGBTQ+ Californians, and every community, access quality, affordable health coverage.

You are not in this alone. There’s free and local help available to answer your questions—whether you want to chat in person, over the phone, or even online.

You deserve access to the support and inclusive services you need at a price you can afford. This includes gender-affirming care like hormone therapy, surgical evaluations and procedures, and mental health support throughout the gender-affirming process and beyond, as well as preventive treatments promoting sexual health such as PrEP and DoxyPEP.

Wishing you were watching RuPaul’s Drag Race instead of thinking about this stuff?

Same.

You can complete your application online or by phone, with certified enrollers ready to help. You can even save your progress to finish later—after Drag Race, happy hour, or whatever you’re up to! Here is a list of documents you may need when applying.

Taking care of your health is key to living your best life. Covered California is here to help. Why?

For the love of Californians.

Brunch will taste much better when you have a plan.