The basic cost of hormone replacement therapy covers bioidentical hormones; prices may vary depending on the treatment method, medication used, dosage, and other factors. Generic pills that contain only estrogen or only progestogen usually have a lower price, while brand-name products and hormone replacement therapy combined may be higher-end. Some insurers draw the line between what they will and won't cover in connection with hormone replacement therapy based on whether the specific therapy is approved by the FDA. Many bioidentical hormone therapies are not approved by the FDA and are therefore not usually covered by insurance.
For example, to begin hormone therapy, requirements may include a diagnosis of gender dysphoria by a licensed mental health professional. Then I'll open an online account with Cost Plus Drug and pay out of pocket for the new systemic estrogens and the two vaginal estrogens, instead of paying the high co-pays for my current pharmacy insurance and with high deductibles. If your insurance is offered by your employer, contact your human resources department for information about hormone therapy coverage. As long as your doctor prescribes compatible, quality hormones and monitors your condition through regular checkups, the risk of breast cancer, weight gain, heart disease, or other medical problems related to hormone replacement therapy is minimal or no.
So can your health insurance cover hormone replacement therapy? It depends on your insurance provider. You should see a qualified hormone specialist who can give you a comprehensive evaluation of your health and symptoms. While hormone hormone therapy is primarily used to treat menopausal symptoms in women, men can also undergo hormone replacement to control any hormonal imbalances. Hormone pills can lower the risk of certain medical conditions, but they can also increase the risk of others. The Veterans Health Administration offers gender-affirming health care, including hormones and prosthetics, mental health care, and other types of health care.
For hormone treatment, you should consider the Medicare Advantage plan (Part C) or the Part D prescription drug plan. Before the law passed, insurers often didn't cover gender-affirming surgeries and medically necessary hormones. Many women prefer bioidentical hormone pills because they are generally considered to be safer than artificial hormones. Unlike other forms of hormone therapy that need to be administered frequently, hormone pills deliver a continuous, steady, and gentle dose that will help you feel better every day.
If you choose treatment with bioidentical hormone pills, be sure to choose a brand created by a pharmaceutical company and approved by the FDA. This hormonal imbalance during perimenopause and menopause can cause an uncomfortable number of menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness and mood changes.
