The Biden administration’s recent statement on gender affirming care for young people has sparked concern and criticism. Many medical experts believe that these decisions should be made between the patient, their family, and their healthcare provider, rather than by the government. Transgender youth deserve the same autonomy and access to care as any other young person.
HRC President Kelley Robinson spoke out against the administration’s stance, calling it wrong on both the science and the substance of gender affirming care for minors. The care that transgender youth receive is based on extensive clinical research and has the support of major medical associations in the U.S. It is crucial that healthcare decisions for transgender youth are not politicized and that they have access to the care they need.
While the administration has since updated their statement to express support for gender-affirming care for minors and to acknowledge the role of parents and healthcare providers in these decisions, more action is needed. The administration must oppose any bans on medically-necessary, evidence-based healthcare for transgender youth to ensure they receive the care they require for their well-being. It is important that decisions about healthcare remain in the hands of families, doctors, and patients, rather than being dictated by the government. The support for transgender youth must be unwavering and consistent to protect their rights and access to essential care.