Rush University Medical Center in Chicago has decided to “suspend” treatments for minors that utilize federal research funds for hormone therapy, puberty blockers, and surgeries related to gender transition, following an executive order from President Donald Trump.
Tobin Klinger, a spokesperson, mentioned that while the hospital will continue providing these services for adults, it will halt “gender-affirming care” for new patients under 18. Reports indicate this change was made public via the Chicago Sun-Times.
“Rush remains a strong supporter of the LGBTQ+ community,” Klinger said, noting that the center would refer minors seeking transgender procedures to other facilities.
The center hasn’t conducted “gender-affirming” surgeries on minors since 2023, and it is now ceasing hormone and puberty blocker treatments for new underage patients, according to reports.
Ashamakumar, the executive director of Transfront, affirmed that existing transgender pediatric patients at Rush will still be able to receive care.
A transgender activist, who uses they/them pronouns, described the current situation as “unprecedented.”
The White House has characterized this recent pause on treatments as a “victory” on social media.
Rush, the largest provider of “gender-affirming care” in the nation, has announced it will suspend these treatments on July 22nd.
Meanwhile, Executive Order 14187, aimed at “protecting children from chemical and surgical procedures,” continues to face legal scrutiny. The Trump administration is actively pursuing lawsuits challenging regulations in states like Washington, Minnesota, Oregon, and Colorado.
The Department of Justice (DOJ) previously stated that it has issued over 20 subpoenas to healthcare professionals and clinics involved in transgender procedures for youth, emphasizing a commitment to hold those accountable who they believe have harmed children through their ideological practices, according to U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi.
Despite these challenges, organizations such as the American Medical Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics continue to advocate for transgender healthcare for minors.
