In California, gender-affirming care remains protected under state law.
Across the country, efforts to block care for transgender youth are part of a larger strategy to erase trans existence, spread fear, and deny fundamental rights.
This is unacceptable. We are fighting back.
This page brings together key resources and information to support individuals, providers, and advocates in navigating access to care. Our goal is to help you feel informed, supported, and empowered as you navigate your right to accessing or providing gender-affirming care with clarity and confidence.
These materials are made to support TGI+ Californians in accessing the medically necessary care they deserve.
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Getting Care Covered by Your Insurance
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Medication Storage Tips
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The finalized CMS rule published August 11, 2026 prevents federal Medicaid (Medi-Cal in California) funding for gender-affirming medical care, including hormonal therapy, puberty blockers, and surgical care, for Medicaid beneficiaries under 18. The resources below were created to support patients and providers in understanding what the rule means in California, and what they can do now as the October 13, 2026 deadline approaches. These resources will continue to be updated as more information becomes available.
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How do I find an affirming therapist?
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#Out4MentalHealth
Finding a Therapist: You Deserve Care from an LGBTQ-Affirming Provider
La búsqueda de un terapeuta:Te mereces recibir atención de un prestador de servicios que afirme identidades LGBTQ -
How to Find a Trans Competent Therapist
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OutCare Health
How should my therapist draft a letter for me to start hormones and/or have surgery?
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Writing Letters of Support to Insurers and Surgeons
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How to Write a Letter of Support
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Example Letter 1
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Example Letter 2
What is a letter of support and why I do need it? (is it just for surgery or for any other types of care?)
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Gender-Affirming Surgery Letters 101 - Folx Health
Does California's insurance agencies cover gender-affirming care?
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Know your health care rights: Gender-Affirming Care Resources
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An Advocate's Guide to Access GAC in California
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Access to health care for TGI Californians
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Gender-affirming care is vital and life-saving
What is the difference between HMO, PPO, EPO?
What is the difference between Medi-Cal's Platinum, Gold, Silver and Bronze plans?
What is a deductible and how is it different from a co-pay?
What is a prior authorization and why do I need it?
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Learn more
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Prior Authorization: What It Is, When It's Used, and Your Options
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Prior Authorization: What is it, when might you need it, and how do you get it?
What do I do if my prior authorization is denied?
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File a Grievance of Appeal
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Medi-Cal fact sheet
How to file a health care complaint in California?
FREE HELP
Health Consumer Alliance
Website: healthconsumer.org
Phone: 888-804-3536
Community Legal Aid SoCal
Website: communitylegalsocal.org
Phone: 714-571-5200
Trans Rights Resources
Website: transrights.lawyersforgoodgovernment.org
*Helpful tips: keep copies of complaints, emails and letters, and any documents you submit or receive.
STEP 1: FILE A COMPLAINT WITH YOUR HEALTH PLAN
Not sure what insurance you have? Search for your health plan here.
- Kaiser
- Expedited review for CA 888-987-7247
- CalOptima (Medi-cal)
- Customer service 888-587-8088
- Inland Empire Health Plan (IEHP, Medi-cal)
- Customer service 855-433-4347
- Covered California
- Customer service 800-300-1506
STEP 2: FILE A COMPLAINT WITH THE STATE
If your complaint isn't resolved with your insurer, you can file with the California Department of Managed Health Care (DMHC)
Online (fastest)
Fax: 916-255-5241
Mail: Department of Managed Health Care 980 9th Street, Suite 500 Sacramento, CA 95814
Forms in other languages can be accessed here.
If someone is helping you file, submit the authorized assistant form so they can represent you.
FILING A CIVIL RIGHTS COMPLAINT
If you experienced discrimination, file with the California Civil Rights Department (CRD)
Online: ccrs.calcivilrights.ca.gov/s/
Phone: 800-844-1684
Email: contact.center@calcivilrights.ca.gov
Mail: 651 Bannon Street, Suite 200 Sacramento, CA 95811
Locations: calcivilrights.ca.gov/locations
I am undocumented. Do I qualify for Medi-Cal?
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Medi-Cal Changes for Adult Immigrants in 2026 and 2027
Will being enrolled in Medi-Cal harm my immigration status?
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Privacy Information for Immigrants with Medi-Cal
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123s of Public Charge fact sheet
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Public Charge Memo - September 2025
Guidance on dealing with federal agents
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Know Your Patients' Rights
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Know Your Rights in the Workplace
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Protecting Immigrant Community Members Accessing Health Care fact sheet
