Florida’s New Law Sparks Concerns for LGBTQ Healthcare Access

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has again demonstrated his discriminatory prowess by signing a bill into law that has LGBTQ advocates up in arms. This lovely piece of legislation, sarcastically dubbed the “Let Them Die Act” by its detractors, gives health care providers the green light to deny essential medical care to LGBTQIA individuals under the frail guise of conscience-based objections. Oh, and here’s the kicker—no alternative referrals required! Who needs healthcare when you can just hang in the balance, right?

The American Civil Liberties Union wasted no time in ripping this sweeping law to shreds. They criticized it for its wide range of services; it allowed health care providers to refuse! But it doesn’t stop there. This law allows health care payers to discriminate against patients. Talk about governmental overreach with a cherry on top, all in the name of religion and morality.

Naturally, the ramifications of this law have LGBTQ+ advocates in a state of alarm. They’re rightfully concerned that companies might seize the opportunity to deny coverage for vital treatments like PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) for HIV-positive individuals or gender-affirming care for transgender folks. And it’s not just about them. This law has far-reaching consequences, potentially enabling practitioners to reject patients with sexually transmitted infections and insurers to refuse coverage for contraception conveniently. As if that weren’t enough, medical professionals now have the right to refuse services to anyone for ethical, moral, or religious reasons. Even in emergency situations. Who needs a medical code of ethics when you have personal beliefs, right?

Now, Florida isn’t the only state waging war on LGBTQ rights, but they sure are earning themselves a gold medal in discriminatory measures. They’ve joined the esteemed ranks of Mississippi, Alabama, Arkansas, Tennessee, Ohio, and Illinois, all proudly allowing medical professionals to deny care based on their religious beliefs. But hold on, folks, because Florida takes it a step further. They go the extra mile by safeguarding the so-called “rights of conscience” for these practitioners. How thoughtful of them to codify discrimination under the fancy guise of personal beliefs.

Let’s not forget that even in states where LGBTQ medical discrimination isn’t legally sanctioned, the reality is still grim for queer and transgender individuals. Bias and stereotypes run rampant, with a staggering 28% reporting bigotry from health care providers, and 16% being outright denied service. These numbers are only going to skyrocket as anti-LGBTQ legislation targeting trans health care continues to spread like wildfires.

These discriminatory laws bring intense consequences, especially to a marginalised community. Our Transgender friends might skip crucial preventive screenings out of fear of mistreatment, while LGBTQ individuals—avoid medical treatment due to discrimination at a rate of one in three for the transgender community. With the rise of anti-LGBTQ legislation, these numbers are bound to shoot even higher, unfortunately.

But Florida’s ruthless assault on LGBTQIA rights doesn’t stop at medical discrimination. Oh no, they’ve got an entire laundry list of discriminatory measures lined up, ready to clean up their state. 80% of transgender adults have been affected by a denial of gender-affirming care, and the criminalisation of restroom usage for trans individuals. It’s like Florida is on a mission to break records in trampling on the rights of its LGBTQ+ residents. Way to go, guys!

Ah, yes. It all started with words—the seeds of prejudice, intolerance, and discrimination. Those insidious little things planted themselves in the minds of individuals, gradually taking root. We must highlight regressive policies and the damage they cause to marginalised communities. Words possess an undeniable influence, capable of shaping attitudes, perceptions, and ultimately, actions. With the LGBTQ+ community, the consequences have been devastating. Lives have been shattered, dreams obliterated, and spirits crushed, all because of the seeds that were sown in the form of discriminatory rhetoric.

We cannot underestimate the power of language, nor should we ignore its role in perpetuating hatred and violence. It is a chilling reminder that the battle for acceptance and equality does not exist in a vacuum. The seeds of discrimination take root in the fertile soil of prejudice, nourished by the complicit silence of those who turn a blind eye.

It began with words, yes, but it is up to us to ensure that the narrative takes a turn towards compassion, inclusivity, and equality. Our words demonstrate our strength and resilience and our dedication to an inclusive society.