Photo Credit To Darryl Dyck / THE CANADIAN PRESS
New Brunswick has announced that it will soon fund gender-affirming surgery under provincial health insurance. As the last hold-out in Canada, the change means every province will have some sort of coverage.
Health Minister Victor Boudreau announced Friday the province will amend the Medical Services Payment Act to ensure procedures are insured.
“Transgender persons living in New Brunswick are facing challenges in life and in the health-care system,” said Boudreau.
“Gender dysphoria is a recognized medical condition that, left untreated, can result in high levels of anxiety and depression, which can lead to suicidal thoughts.”
Though welcome news for transgender and gender-nonconforming New Brunswickers, it’s also coming later than expected.
