Malpractice Insurers Gender-Affirming Care Minors
The bill would specifically amend Colorado Revised Statutes related to medical malpractice insurance, allowing for increased discretion on the part of insurers regarding coverage policies. By enabling insurers to exclude coverage for healthcare providers performing gender-affirming services for minors, the bill directly impacts the landscape of healthcare services available to transgender youth. It could lead to a risk-averse environment where providers may decide against offering such care due to insurance-related liabilities, ultimately limiting access to vital health services.
House Bill 1068 introduces significant changes to medical malpractice insurance in Colorado, particularly concerning gender-affirming care provided to minors. Under current law, insurers are restricted from increasing premiums or canceling policies based on the type of care being provided. However, HB1068 permits insurers to take actions such as refusing coverage or renewing policies if healthcare professionals or facilities provide gender-affirming care to individuals under 18 years of age. This shift could potentially jeopardize access to necessary medical services for transgender youth.
This initiative has sparked considerable debate and concern among various stakeholders, including medical professionals, legal experts, and advocacy groups. Proponents argue that the bill serves to protect insurers from potential legal repercussions involved in providing gender-affirming treatments. Conversely, opponents raise alarm over the implications for minors seeking gender-affirming care, arguing it undermines the rights to access comprehensive healthcare and reinforces discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community. The prohibition on state funding for insurance premiums related to these services adds another layer of complexity and concern regarding the bill's long-term implications.