APA WF 26-07 Nonpayment for Certain Gender Transition Procedures
The proposed revisions implement Senate Bill 904, now codified at Section 1-800 of Title 63 of the Oklahoma Statutes. The revision adds language providing that OHCA does not reimburse for or provide coverage of gender transition procedures, as defined by Section 1-800 of Title 63. This prohibition applies regardless of whether the procedure is provided to a minor or an adult. The statutory definition excludes behavioral health services or mental health counseling, medications to treat depression or anxiety, certain medications used to treat precocious or delayed puberty, certain services related to disorders of sex development, treatment of complications, and emergency treatment. The law became effective upon passage and approval pursuant to the emergency clause.
Please view the draft regulatory text here and submit feedback via the comment box.
Circulation Date: 5/29/26
Comment Due Date: 6/13/26
Requested Effective Date: Immediately upon gubernatorial approval.
Submit a Comment
After you submit your comment, you should be re-directed to a confirmation page. If you are not, please submit your comment through e-mail to federal.authorities@okhca.org.
Please note that all comments must be reviewed and approved prior to posting. Approved comments will be posted Monday through Friday between the hours of 7:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. Any comments received after 4 p.m. will be posted on the following business day.
Comments
Caley:
I respectfully submit these comments regarding the proposed revisions implementing Senate Bill 904, codified at 63 O.S. § 1-800, which prohibit Oklahoma Health Care Authority reimbursement for gender transition procedures.
I recognize that OHCA is implementing requirements enacted by the Oklahoma legislature and that the agency's discretion may be limited. Nevertheless, I encourage OHCA to implement these provisions in ways that minimize harm and preserve clinical judgment wherever possible.
I submit these comments in my individual capacity as a licensed psychologist and citizen of Oklahoma.
As a healthcare professional, it is crucial that decisions regarding medically necessary treatment should remain within the provider-patient relationship and be guided by individualized assessment, informed consent, and established standards of care. Research in this area shows that gender-affirming medical interventions improve psychological well-being and quality of life for appropriately selected individuals. Denying coverage for these interventions risks increasing barriers to care for an already vulnerable population and contributing to poorer health outcomes.
I also recognize the financial pressures facing Medicaid programs. However, policies intended to reduce short-term expenditures must consider the potential long-term costs associated with untreated or undertreated conditions, including increased reliance on crisis services, emergency care, and other high-cost interventions.
As psychologists, we are ethically obligated to promote beneficence, avoid harm, respect autonomy, and advocate for equitable access to appropriate healthcare services. I respectfully urge OHCA to implement this law in a manner that minimizes unintended harm, preserves access to covered behavioral health and supportive services, and supports the health and well-being of all Oklahomans.
Thank you for your consideration.
