Community Voices: Penn State Health’s Decision to End Gender-Affirming Care for Under-19s Sparks Strong Reactions

On a recent Friday, a passionate crowd gathered outside Penn State Health in Hershey, calling for the continuation of gender-affirming healthcare for trans youth. Among the protestors was Aspen Carroll, a trans man who stated, “Trans rights are human rights.”

Just two weeks earlier, Penn State Health announced it would no longer provide full gender-affirming medical care to patients under 19, following a similar decision by UPMC. This shift came after an executive order from President Trump on January 28, aiming to limit various medical procedures for minors.

The executive order states that the U.S. will not fund or support “transition” procedures for children.

Although two federal judges are currently blocking this order, its impact is already being felt as hospitals like Penn State Health adopt these new restrictions.

Corinne Goodwin, director of the Eastern Pennsylvania Trans Equity Project, lamented, “They are pre-complying because they’re afraid.” The protest highlighted concerns from the trans community, parents, and allies about the consequences of denying care.

One parent, Stephanie Dymec, expressed her frustration: “It’s infuriating that healthcare is being restricted this way. This can literally save lives.” Another mother, Jennifer Beck, shared how supportive care changed her child’s life, transforming them from a withdrawn individual to a vibrant young adult.

Conversely, the Pennsylvania Family Institute backed the executive order. Dan Bartkowiak, the Chief Strategy Officer, stated, “Taxpayer dollars should not fund harmful surgeries for minors.”

Penn State Health responded to the protests, emphasizing their ongoing commitment to providing compassionate care and support for trans individuals. They mentioned their Gender Care Clinic, which offers psychosocial support for adolescents aged 10 to 24, while continuing to provide full gender-affirming options for adults aged 19 and older.

The effects of this healthcare decision highlight a broader trend in the U.S. healthcare system, where access to critical services for trans youth is increasingly under threat. A recent study by the Williams Institute found that nearly one in three transgender youth reported being denied healthcare. These statistics underline the urgency for advocates and communities to rally for the rights of trans individuals, especially minors who depend on essential medical care.

Discussions surrounding this topic are vibrant on social media, where hashtags like #TransRightsAreHumanRights trend frequently. In a society seeking inclusivity, the ongoing battle for trans rights remains a critical issue, and the outcomes will significantly shape the futures of countless young individuals.

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Penn State Health,Gender-affirming care,Trans youth,Protest,Executive order,Healthcare,Community,Transgender