Children’s Wisconsin and UW Health have halted gender-affirming care for minors, following recent changes in federal policy. These are two of the largest children’s hospitals in the state, and advocates worry this decision will harm the mental health of transgender youth.
The halt comes after the Trump administration announced plans to cut Medicaid and Medicare funds for hospitals offering gender-affirming treatments. Critics say this could endanger the well-being of young people, claiming it may cause lasting harm.
Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. emphasized that the government aims to protect vulnerable children by banning what they deem as unsafe practices. He stated, “Our children deserve better,” highlighting the administration’s intention to shield minors from perceived risks.
Children’s Wisconsin cited “increasing legal and federal regulatory risks” as the reason for its decision. They express commitment to treating LGBTQ+ children with respect and are maintaining mental health services for patients and their families.
Similarly, UW Health announced it is pausing puberty blockers and hormone therapy for patients under 18 due to the recent federal actions but reassured that they remain dedicated to offering compassionate care. They acknowledged the uncertainty faced by families seeking gender-affirming care.
Steve Starkey, executive director of the OutReach LGBTQ+ Community Center in Madison, expressed concern over these changes. He believes that allowing trans individuals to express their true selves is vital for their mental and physical health, and cuts in care may hinder that expression.
A 2023 study by the Williams Institute at UCLA reveals alarming statistics: over 80% of transgender adults have contemplated suicide, and more than 40% have attempted it. Starkey noted that these trends are even more pronounced among youth, who are already more vulnerable. He called the changes a potential trigger for increased mental health challenges and suicide rates in the trans community.
Susan Neeley, director of family engagement and advocacy at GSAFE, also highlighted the unfair targeting of the trans community. The mounting attacks have profound physical, emotional, and mental effects on individuals.
In terms of physical implications, Neeley pointed out that stopping treatments like hormone therapy may lead to unwanted changes in the body. For example, those who have been on estrogen and suddenly stop might experience a reversion to traits they do not identify with, further complicating their journey.
The ongoing debate around gender-affirming care emphasizes the complexities of policy decisions and their real-world impacts on individuals, particularly young people navigating their identities. As health systems adjust to new regulations, the conversation continues about how to best support the mental and physical well-being of transgender youth.
For more on the implications of gender-affirming care and policy changes, visit UCLA’s Williams Institute for in-depth research and resources.
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