Children’s Wisconsin and UW Health, two of the largest pediatric healthcare providers in the state, have halted gender-affirming treatments for minors. This decision follows recent changes in federal policies that affect how such treatments are funded and regulated.
Federal Policy Changes Prompt Healthcare Suspension
Last month, the Trump administration announced plans to restrict Medicaid and Medicare funding for hospitals delivering gender-affirming care to minors. This has raised significant concerns among advocates who fear negative mental health outcomes for transgender youth.
Impact on Transgender Youth
- Advocates express concern over the mental health impact on young individuals who rely on these treatments.
- Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. emphasized the administration’s commitment to protecting children from what they see as harmful practices.
Children’s Wisconsin cited “escalating legal and federal regulatory risk” as a reason for its suspension of gender-affirming pharmacologic treatments. The health system has committed to ongoing mental health services for affected patients and their families.
Response from UW Health
Similarly, UW Health announced it would pause prescriptions for puberty blockers and hormone therapy for minors, echoing concerns over recent federal actions. The hospital system remains dedicated to providing compassionate care for LGBTQ+ individuals.
Reactions from the Community
Steve Starkey, executive director of the OutReach LGBTQ+ Community Center in Madison, voiced concerns over the implications of these decisions on the mental and physical health of trans youth in Wisconsin. He highlighted the importance of self-expression for the well-being of transgender individuals.
- Over 80% of trans adults reportedly contemplated suicide, with more than 40% having attempted it, according to a 2023 study by the Williams Institute at UCLA.
- Starkey warned that limiting access to gender-affirming treatments could exacerbate these mental health challenges.
Moving Forward
Susan Neeley from GSAFE, an advocacy organization for LGBTQ+ youth, criticized the administration’s targeting of the trans community. She pointed out the emotional and physical toll these policy changes could have on young individuals. The interruption of treatments like puberty blockers and hormone therapy may lead to significant and unwelcome changes in their physical health.
As discussions about gender-affirming care continue, both Children’s Wisconsin and UW Health maintain their commitment to supporting their patients through mental health services. The future of gender-affirming treatments for minors remains a contentious issue that many are closely watching.
