Two hospitals in California have made the decision to discontinue hormone treatments for transgender youth due to pressures from the Trump administration. This move is part of a larger trend where many hospitals and clinics have reduced or ended gender-affirming care for transgender individuals.
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The largest children’s hospital system in California has announced that they will no longer provide gender-affirming hormone therapy for individuals under 19. This decision comes after increased pressure from the Trump administration on medical providers to cease care for transgender youth. Kevin Tidmarsh from LAist has the details, but please be advised that this story discusses suicide.
KEVIN TIDMARSH, BYLINE: A father in San Diego, known as Brett, shared his family’s experience with NPR. Four years ago, his child was struggling with depression until he revealed that he identified as a boy. After starting hormone treatment at Rady Children’s Hospital, San Diego, Brett noticed a positive change in his son’s well-being. However, the hospital system recently announced the discontinuation of gender-affirming hormone therapy for individuals under 19, affecting nearly 1,500 patients.
BRETT: The news was devastating for our family.
TIDMARSH: Rady Children’s Health cited increasing federal actions, including a referral to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, as the reason for this decision. The Trump administration has implemented various measures to restrict access to gender-affirming care for youth, claiming it is harmful. This includes proposed rule changes that could potentially cut federal funding for hospitals offering such treatments.
BRETT: The clinic staff has been incredibly supportive, but their hands are tied.
TIDMARSH: National medical organizations like the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Endocrine Society have emphasized the importance of gender-affirming care for transgender individuals. However, the federal government’s stance has led to several hospitals nationwide discontinuing hormone therapy for transgender youth.
KELLAN BAKER: This is a concerning situation.
TIDMARSH: Kellan Baker from the Movement Advancement Project expressed worry over the proposed rules that could impact federal funding for hospitals providing gender-affirming care. While some private providers may step in to fill the gap, large hospitals play a crucial role in treating transgender patients and developing best practices.
ALEX SHELDON: The lack of access to treatment is putting lives at risk.
TIDMARSH: Alex Sheldon from GLMA highlighted the challenges faced by providers and patients due to the discontinuation of care at large hospitals. Efforts are being made to find alternative providers, but the situation remains uncertain for many families. California’s attorney general has taken legal action to restore care at Rady Hospital, but in the meantime, families are seeking care elsewhere. For NPR News, I’m Kevin Tidmarsh in Los Angeles.
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