This article is reprinted from the Speak Out Now healthcare newsletter at Kaiser and Highland Hospitals in Oakland, CA.
Healthcare workers around the country are expressing outrage over the Trump administration’s attacks on the health and safety of transgender people. In the last month, Trump signed an executive order barring institutions from receiving federal funding if they provide gender-affirming healthcare to those under age 19. This healthcare is evidence-based, and research shows that mental health outcomes are better for transgender people who are able to access medication as teenagers, versus those who access it as adults. Healthcare decisions should be made between a patient and their physician, under the guidance of scientific research, not left to the whims of politicians and their agendas.
Unfortunately, the very research that guides medical decision-making for these patients is also under attack. Trump has ordered scientists at the CDC to stop publication of any pending research that focuses on transgender people. Both the CDC and NIH websites have been forced to take down information pertaining to gender-related research. Limiting basic research is another way of limiting access to healthcare for this population.
As healthcare workers, we are committed to promoting the health and safety of all people, and treating every individual with dignity and respect. We reject this administration’s dangerous attacks, and are ready to stand by our transgender patients, coworkers, and community members.
Click here to read the article printed in the 02-26-25 Healthcare Newsletter
