- United States
- N.Y.
- Letter
NYU Langone's decision to cancel gender-affirming care appointments for transgender youth under 19 is deeply concerning. Gender-affirming care is essential healthcare for trans individuals, allowing them to live authentically and improve their mental health outcomes. Denying this vital care puts vulnerable young people at risk and violates their fundamental rights. As a major healthcare provider in New York, NYU Langone has a responsibility to provide inclusive, non-discriminatory care to all patients, regardless of age or gender identity. Transgender youth already face numerous challenges and barriers to accessing appropriate medical treatment. Withholding puberty blockers and other gender-affirming services will only exacerbate the marginalization and distress experienced by these young people. I urge NYU Langone to immediately reinstate gender-affirming care for trans youth under 19. Standing up for the rights and wellbeing of this vulnerable population is not only the ethical course of action, but is also in line with evidence-based medical best practices. No young person should be denied critical healthcare due to discriminatory policies. As a respected institution, NYU Langone must lead by example and prioritize the health and dignity of all patients.