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Rush Medical Center Rolls Back Gender-Affirming Care For Minors

Chicago, ILLocal News

Rush University Medical Center has paused gender-affirming treatments for new patients under 18 years old amid threats from the Trump administration to cut federal funding. Effective July 1, the policy allows current patients to continue treatment only if stopping would cause harm. Rush officials emphasized their commitment to the LGBTQ+ community, stating they will refer patients to alternative services. This decision follows Trump's January executive order aimed at cutting federal grants to providers that offer gender-affirming care, which he labeled as “chemical and surgical mutilation. ” Advocacy groups view this change as a major setback for transgender healthcare access in Chicago.

In addition to Rush, other local hospitals have scaled back similar services, reflecting a growing trend. In 2024, Rush received $73 million in federal grants, underscoring the financial stakes involved. The move raises concerns about the future of gender-affirming care for minors amid increasing political pressure.

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