(GayWebSource.com – Gay Media & Press Network) – Posted by Michael Lamb – Echelon Magazine

For many years, the LGBT community has experienced disparities in the health system as they have been denied the same rights as heterosexual Americans, have been found to have a high percentage of preexisting medical conditions and have experienced difficulty finding affordable health insurance.  Now members of the LGBT community can have a sense of ease, as the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and recent Defense of Marriage Act ruling bring new health care rights and protections.

Under the ACA, insurance companies cannot discriminate based on gender identity or sexual orientation, meaning members of the LGBT community cannot be denied coverage or charged more for being lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgendered. In addition, health insurers cannot limit how much money they will spend on medical care, over a year or over a lifetime. For the first time, anyone living with a preexisting medical condition, including HIV/AIDS, cannot be denied health insurance.  These changes are substantial for the LGBT community as studies have shown that LGBT people suffer from chronic illnesses that require long-term costs at a higher rate than other Americans.

Just like heterosexual married couples, legally married same-sex couples, now have access to federal tax credits that lower the cost of insurance.  Even if a gay or lesbian couple lives in a state that does not recognize same-sex marriage, they can still apply jointly for federal tax credits.  This victory for the LGBT community came in June 2014 when the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling overturned part of the Defense of Marriage Act. This decision also allows same-sex married couples the right to visit his or her partner in the hospital and name a representative to make medical decisions on a patient’s behalf.

Finally, under the new Medicaid expansion, more LGBT Americans will now qualify for Medicaid if their incomes fall under the poverty line. This expansion is significant for the LGBT community, because according to a report by The Williams Institute, the LGBT community is more likely to live in poverty, especially transgendered men and women as they are less likely to find a job.

With all the changes Americans are facing, finding an affordable, comprehensive health plan can be frustrating and confusing.  GoHealthInsurance offers licensed advisors, at no cost, that can recommend and help consumers choose a plan that fits their lifestyle and needs. GoHealth licensed advisors can also see if you qualify for tax credits and apply them to your coverage, ensuring that the most cost effective and beneficial plan is obtained.  To compare health insurance options or speak with a licensed advisor, visit the GoHealth Marketplace.

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