Health insurance matters for children of same-sex parents

Recognizing the legitimacy of same-sex relationships is an important step to getting the best health outcomes for children with same-sex parents. This is especially the case when it comes to health insurance. A new study, published in September 2013, has shown that disparities in private insurance diminish for children with same-sex parents when the family lives in a state that permits same-sex marriage, civil unions, domestic partnerships, or second-parent adoptions.

Why does this matter for children of same-sex parents?

It matters because health insurance is often associated with improved health for children, particularly in the US.

55% of the population in the US receive health insurance through their own or their family’s employer-sponsored health plan. When US states legally recognize same-sex marriages, civil unions or comprehensive domestic relationships, then employers that are “fully insured” and regulated by state insurance laws are often required to grant health insurance benefits to the children of gay and lesbian employees.

But, not all US states legally recognize same-sex unions or allow adoption by same-sex parents. This means that gay and lesbian parents often face barriers to adding their children to their health insurance plan. As a consequence, the health outcomes of children of same-sex parents may be compromised.

Which families have private health insurance in the US?

From American Community Survey data, it’s been shown that 78% of straight married couples families have private health insurance.