Trump Administration Halts Federal Funding for Gender-Affirming Care for Minors
President Donald Trump recently issued an executive order that halts federal funding for gender-affirming care for individuals under the age of 19.
Implications of the Executive Order
This directive mandates that institutions receiving federal financial support cease providing gender-affirming care to minors. The order explicitly states that the U.S. government will no longer finance or endorse minors’ transitions, including procedures such as puberty blockers, hormone therapy, or surgery.
Furthermore, the administration has instructed agencies to retract any guidance related to gender dysphoria care that aligns with the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH). Many medical organizations rely on WPATH’s recommendations when formulating their own care standards.
Future Actions and Policy Changes
Within the next 90 days, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is tasked with conducting a comprehensive review to determine the most effective approaches for treating minors with gender dysphoria. The HHS secretary has been directed to utilize all available mechanisms to discontinue gender-affirming care for minors, including adjustments to Medicare and Medicaid conditions, clinical protocols, and oversight procedures.
In a parallel move, the Department of Defense is initiating the process to exclude gender-affirming care from TRICARE coverage.
Legal Priorities and Enforcement Measures
President Trump’s order also emphasizes the importance of combatting female genital mutilation and investigating instances of misinformation regarding the side effects of gender-affirming procedures. The Department of Justice is instructed to prioritize the enforcement of laws that restrict such treatments.
Moreover, federal employee health insurance will not cover gender-affirming care for minors in the 2026 plan year. The government is committed to enforcing laws that prohibit these procedures.
Controversy and Medical Perspectives
While gender-affirming care for minors is widely supported by major medical institutions like the American Academy of Pediatrics, critics highlight a British government review by pediatrician Hilary Cass. This review questions the existing evidence base and urges caution when treating minors with gender dysphoria.
As debates continue to unfold, the impact of this executive order on the healthcare landscape, medical ethics, and the well-being of transgender minors remains a topic of significant concern and discussion.
