1. United States
2. Pa.
3. Letter

Gender affirming care is essential healthcare that should be accessible to all transgender individuals, regardless of geographic location or political affiliation. The recent legal settlement in Pennsylvania, requiring expanded access and improved training for providers at Conemaugh Health System, sets a positive precedent for improving trans healthcare nationwide. However, there are still many areas where access remains limited, including regions that lean conservative politically. All people deserve compassionate, evidence-based gender affirming care without discrimination. Increasing availability of these vital services across the country, through similar legal actions if necessary, would improve the health and well-being of transgender Americans in every community. A nationwide commitment to trans-inclusive healthcare is long overdue.