Efforts to address gender dysphoria in minors should focus on mental health counseling rather than hormone blockers and surgeries, according to Adm. Brian Christine, Assistant Secretary of Health and Human Services. He endorsed a new rule from the Trump administration that prohibits Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) from funding puberty blockers, hormone therapies, and surgical treatments for minors. Christine emphasized that most children diagnosed with gender dysphoria are likely to outgrow it with appropriate counseling. He criticized “sex-rejecting procedures” as potentially harmful, advocating instead for what he termed “corrective care.” The new policy, which takes effect on October 13, will allow for a six-month tapering period for minors currently undergoing hormone treatment, while 27 states have enacted similar restrictions on gender-affirming care for minors.
Why It Matters
The new regulations reflect a growing trend among states and federal agencies to limit access to gender transition treatments for minors, citing concerns about long-term health consequences. Historically, gender dysphoria has been documented predominantly among adult males, with a significant rise in diagnoses among minors in recent years, particularly young girls. Mental health professionals have expressed concerns that the increase in diagnoses may be influenced by social factors rather than purely medical ones. These developments could impact the treatment approaches for gender dysphoria and shape the conversation around health care policy for minors in the United States.
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