Introduction

If you're disabled and / or low income, I suggest finding a way to move to California. As far as I know, their public health insurance (Medi-Cal) will cover SRS. They have other good social programs (at least in the Bay area, where I was). Also, anyone who is an employee of any campus of the University of California will be covered. They have a number of plans to choose from and they'll all cover SRS. Obviously, getting the latest information from the appropriate agencies before making the decision to move is essential, as things can change over time. If you can work, Medica insurance in Minnesota covers SRS, as well as gender therapy and hormones. Obviously, this will require moving to Minnesota, but if it gets your SRS why not?

If you don't live in, or can't move to, California I advocate trying to get insurance coverage of SRS, either private or public (i.e. Medicaid) and appeal if denied. Medicaid has increasingly covered SRS. If an appeal is denied appeal at the next level. Pursue all your appeal options, including going to court! If you can't find a lawyer to represent you, consider representing yourself. Do research and gather as much evidence as you can to support your position so you're well armed when your case comes up. The court system is setup to give citizens the right to challenge unfair business policies! One person forced Medica in Minnesota to cover hormones, therapy and SRS!

SRS should be covered, just like any other medically-necessary procedure!

Sometimes a way to get SRS is overlooked because it seems too simple, unlikely and has bad connotations. That is, asking for money. It seems so far-fetched it could actually happen that some probably dismiss it. But it does happen and not only to me! I know of two other people who had their surgeries paid for. I encourage people to try it for severals reasons:

• It sounds simple, but you can't get money if you don't ask!
• There are good Samaritans and philanthropists most everywhere and it gives them pleasure to help people.
• Even if the person says no, he or she may know someone who might donate the money.
• Don't quit after the first no, the next person may say yes!

There's a need to educate our public officials and representatives about trans issues. I think a lot of inactivity in securing transgender rights is due to lack of education and the dissemination of accurate information. Politicians usually appreciate hearing from their constituents, the challenges and discrimination we face. In the political world the squeaky wheel gets the grease.

onto 10 ways to pay for SRS
tax dollars and a sex change: story of one patient

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