Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts Expands Support for LGBTQIA+ Members

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Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts announced that it is expanding support for LGBTQIA+ members.¹ This includes greater access, support, and services, including a gender-affirming care program.

Members will also have access to FOLX Health, a virtual care provider that focuses on LGBTQIA+ health services. Blue Cross is also donating $1 million to Fenway Health for every ride taken on a pride-themed Bluebike in during Pride Month. Fenway is a Boston-based health care company focused on LGBTQIA+ services, BIPOC, and other underserved communities.

In a press release, Blue Cross’ chief medical officer Dr. Sandhya Rao said, “Navigating the personal, emotional, and often confusing nature of the reproductive health and gender-affirming care landscape can be challenging. As demand for these services continues to grow, our job is to ensure our members have access to high-quality, equitable care and the resources they need to feel supported."

In the same press release, FOLX Health CEO Liana Douillet Guzman said, “Our data shows that 95% of our patients did not have an LGBTQIA+ competent provider prior to finding FOLX. We're honored to work with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts to expand access to expert care via FOLX and improve health and wellness outcomes for the LGBTQIA+ community."

Blue Cross’ vice president of medical operations added, “Research shows that gender-affirming care can improve the physical and mental health and well-being of our members. Our priority is to ensure all our members have the resources and support they need to figure out what care options are available and right for them."

"Fenway advocates that all individuals have the right to high-quality, patient-centered care. The work to ensure that access to this care is safe and attainable for trans and gender diverse communities in Massachusetts is now more evident than ever before," said Julie Thompson, medical director of trans health at Fenway Health. "BCBSMA has consistently stood as a leader by uplifting the voices and needs of trans and gender diverse communities and has consistently met the call to create support and service coverage that these communities deserve."

In May, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts announced that it had been recognized as one of the 50 most community-minded companies in the United States by Points of Light, a nonprofit organization.²

In a press release issued at the time, Blue Cross’ vice president of corporate citizenship and public affairs Jeff Bellows said, “As a community-focused, not-for-profit health plan, we're committed to helping build healthier and more equitable communities. We strive to use our company resources, values and expertise to advance health justice and are proud to be recognized by Points of Light for our industry leadership to support the work of our not-for-profit partners."

In the same press release, Points of Light’s president and CEO Jennifer Sirangelo said, “Expectations for companies to be leaders in civic engagement continue to increase. Blue Cross demonstrates how to maximize the full range of their assets – from people power to policy to financial contributions – to meet pressing needs and create thriving communities where they live and work. We're thrilled to uplift and celebrate them as an honoree of The Civic 50 2024."

Sources

1. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts Expands Access to Services and Care Options to Support LGBTQIA+ Members. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts. June 5, 2024. https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/blue-cross-blue-shield-of-massachusetts-expands-access-to-services-and-care-options-to-support-lgbtqia-members-302164036.html
2. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts Recognized as One of the 50 Most Community-Minded Companies in the United States. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts. May 16, 2024. Accessed June 5, 2024. https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/blue-cross-blue-shield-of-massachusetts-recognized-as-one-of-the-50-most-community-minded-companies-in-the-united-states-302146736.html