OutServe-SLDN applauds report that Pentagon has proposed changes to its medical benefits for transgender troops, families and retirees

(Washington, DC - February 1, 2016) – According to the Military Times report "the Pentagon is poised to make significant changes to its mental health benefits for troops, families and retirees, to include eliminating limits on inpatient services and allowing Tricare to cover hormone therapy for transgender individuals. The Defense Department will propose several changes to mental health services to better align the military health program with the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act of 2008 and the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act."

In a statement, Matt Thorn, Interim Executive Director for OutServe-SLDN stated: 

"I applaud the reports from the Pentagon on its proposed changes to medical benefits for our transgender service members, their families and our veterans. All service members, their dependents and veterans deserve quality health care regardless of their gender identity. This is a significant step by the Pentagon to ensure that transgender service members, their families and veterans are being treated equal and have the ability to obtain the necessary care they deserve. As we move closer to ending the ban on transgender service this announcement today is another part of the foundation in that quest. Ensuring that transgender service members and their families are able to seek and acquire adequate health care is fundamental and the Pentagon has recognized that today.

This announcement comes on the heels of great progress for the transgender community in the armed services. Ending the ban on transgender service has been long overdue and this announcement and change is another step in that direction."

OutServe-SLDN (OS-SLDN) is the largest non-profit, legal services, advocacy and policy organization dedicated to bringing about full LGBT equality to America's military and ending all forms of discrimination and harassment of military personnel on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. With more than fifty chapters and 60,000 subscribers around the world, OS-SLDN supports a professional network of LGBT military personnel and strives to create an environment of respect in the military with regard to sexual orientation and gender identity. OS-SLDN provides free and direct legal assistance to service members and veterans affected by the repealed "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" law and the prior regulatory ban on open service, as well as those currently serving who may experience harassment or discrimination. For more information, visit www.outserve-sldn.org.