VA Director Discusses Changes to Transgender Healthcare Policies
Doug Collins, the Director of the Veterans Affairs Bureau, recently shared in an exclusive interview that the agency expects to save “literally millions of dollars” by discontinuing transgender-related medical procedures. This decision follows the VA’s announcement in March to end programs that offered “gender-affirming” treatments like prosthetics, cross-sex hormones, and other related services spanning several administrations, including that of former President Trump.
Collins noted that the funds saved will be redirected to support veterans who require more traditional healthcare services. “If I go ahead with this, it’s going to be literally millions of dollars,” he stated.
The VA has faced ongoing critiques from multiple presidential administrations regarding the quality of care, subpar facilities, and bureaucratic delays. Prior to Collins’ tenure, there was a focus on providing various items associated with gender transition, such as prosthetic breasts and chest binders.
“That’s not what we’re trying to do with the VA… it really doesn’t fit our mission,” Collins explained. He emphasized a commitment to focusing on veterans’ needs and redirecting efforts toward prosthetics and community health programs.
When addressing potential pushback, Collins remarked that unlike in other areas of the Trump administration, there hasn’t been significant resistance within the department regarding the removal of left-leaning ideological priorities. He mentioned having faced only a few questions from Congress but noted overall understanding of the process.
Collins also acknowledged that while there are individuals who may disagree with the changes, the agency is primarily concerned with the overall care for veterans. A clear stance on the Biden administration’s regulations allowing abortion services at VA facilities was not outlined, though Collins did indicate that the review of these policies is still in progress.
“We’re still going through that process right now… ensuring that we are doing our best for veterans and the care we provide,” he concluded.
