A decade ago, when she was starting to transition genders, the artist known as Our Lady J steeled herself as she called endocrinologists, seeking one who would prescribe hormones. “I couldn’t find a doctor,” said the classical pianist and singer, who is currently a writer for the television series “Transparent.” “I was treated like a freak.”

Since then, the medical community in the United States has resoundingly concluded that transgender care — which includes hormone replacement therapy, counseling and surgical procedures — is medically necessary and should be covered by insurance.

Federal health officials say insurers and medical providers that discriminate against transgender individuals by denying transition-related care are violating the law. And a recent study by Johns Hopkins University found that providing transgender-related care is cost-effective in the long run because it generally reduces the likelihood of depression, anxiety and other conditions that take a toll on well-being and productivity. Moreover, the cost of this coverage for insurers would be negligible.