California LGBT Health and Human Services Network
January / 22 / 2018
California LGBTQ Mental Health Think Tank

We know that many of you throughout the state are working hard to address the mental health needs of LGBTQ people in your communities. Whether you're providing services through groups, have therapists on staff, or are trying to help people navigate the confusing world of the public mental health system, we want to hear from you.

As part of our #Out4MentalHealth campaign, we are creating a statewide LGBTQ Mental Health Think Tank. Through regular phone calls and meetings, we want to learn and share information about what the barriers are to accessing quality, affordable, and affirming care in your communities. Together, we will identify potential solutions, including how to fund LGBTQ mental health programs, making sure counties and/or providers are complying with state laws, and what state or local policy changes are needed.

We look forward to working with all of you to achieve mental health equity for LGBTQ Californians. 

February Network Call:
How Prop 64 implementation will impact LGBTQ communities

February 1, 2018
10:00 am - 11:00 am

Call in Number: 866-906-7447
Conference Code: 4914724#
Web Conference  Link

In This Issue
The Network Listserv  is available for member use to share information about upcoming LGBTQ events, campai gns, sign-on letters, share resources, and find partners for collaboration.





LGBTQ people are 2.5x more likely to experience depression or anxiety. And use substances at 2-4x the rate of the general population. Luckily, all plans through Covered California cover preventative health, mental health, and substance use treatment. 
  • Health plans and prices change each year - and the amount of financial help you can get may change too. 
  • 80% of LGBT people want to meet with an assister that understands LGBT-specific issues. Consumers can get free in-person LGBT friendly help from an expert using Out 2 Enroll's Locator Tool. 
  • LGBTQ people are protected from discrimination in health care and health insurance. Section 1557's non-discrimination protections are still in place. 
  • Health insurance is better than ever for transgender people who can expect more and demand more. Trans consumers should enroll and expect that transition-related care will be covered. 
You may have questions about the federal tax law that was passed in December. Covered California wants to assure you that the benefits related to your Covered California coverage, including financial help to reduce monthly premiums, has NOT changed for 2018. The penalty also remains in effect for 2018 coverage. The only change is the tax penalty will no longer be in effect beginning in 2019.  Throughout 2018 you will still have access to the same quality, affordable health coverage from Covered California. 

What does this mean?
  • For 2018, individuals who can afford health insurance but choose not to enroll for coverage will be required to pay a penalty. 
  • Financial help, for those who qualify, to help lower the cost of health coverage through Covered California REMAINS IN PLACE.
  • Quality health care, health benefits and consumer protections such as Pre-Existing Conditions REMAIN IN PLACE.
  • For individuals who do not buy insurance because it would be "unaffordable" for them, in 2018 they will not be required to pay a penalty. 
Visit  www.coveredca.com  now through January 31st to find a plan that fits your budget and covers the care you need.
Upcoming Events

Jan 25-28 -  Finding Freedom: LGBTQ Symposium  - Palm Springs
Jan 26 - Adult Residential Facility Stakeholder Engagement - Woodland
Feb 17 - SoCal LGBTQIA Health Conference - Los Angeles
Mar 03 -  AIDS Walk and Health Fair  - Ventura
Oct 19-20 - Improving OUTcomes Conference - Sacramento