Advancing Transgender Health amid Rising Policy Threats

This article analyzes the policy-driven threats to transgender health in the United States under the Trump-Vance administration. Recent executive actions mandate a binary definition of sex and restrict federal funding for gender-affirming care for those under 19. These moves, combined with state-level legislation, have led to widespread clinic closures, reduced access to care, and worsened mental health outcomes for transgender and nonbinary youth. The authors argue that gender-affirming care is evidence-based and essential, citing its role in reducing depression and suicidality. They call for federal and state protections, the continuation of programs like Ryan White HIV/AIDS, legal advocacy, and professional solidarity. The piece emphasizes the urgency of safeguarding evidence-based, patient-centered care in the face of expanding systemic threats to transgender rights.

This article analyzes the policy-driven threats to transgender health in the United States under the Trump-Vance administration. Recent executive actions mandate a binary definition of sex and restrict federal funding for gender-affirming care for those under 19. These moves, combined with state-level legislation, have led to widespread clinic closures, reduced access to care, and worsened mental health outcomes for transgender and nonbinary youth. The authors argue that gender-affirming care is evidence-based and essential, citing its role in reducing depression and suicidality. They call for federal and state protections, the continuation of programs like Ryan White HIV/AIDS, legal advocacy, and professional solidarity. The piece emphasizes the urgency of safeguarding evidence-based, patient-centered care in the face of expanding systemic threats to transgender rights.