July 13, 2016

HHS issues final rule on nondiscrimination of transgender services The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office for Civil Rights recently issued its final rule for the nondiscrimination provision of the Affordable Care Act. The final regulation does not create a new nondiscrimination law, rather it explains that Section 1557 prohibits discrimination based on gender identity. It also explains in detail what kinds of policies or practices are considered discriminatory. Independence is reviewing the final regulation to determine impacts to medical policy and plan benefits. We will update you as additional information becomes available. You may read the official communication from HHS about Section 1557 of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. If you have any questions, please contact your Independence account executive.   ©2016 Independence Blue Cross. All rights reserved. 1901 Market Street | Philadelphia, PA 19103 Independence Blue Cross offers products directly, through its subsidiaries Keystone Health Plan East and QCC Insurance Company, and with Highmark Blue Shield — independent licensees of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.