Urge Restoration of Gender-Affirming Care for Michigan Youth

I am writing to express my deep concern over the recent decision by University of Michigan Health and Corewell Health to discontinue gender-affirming care for patients under 19 years old. This abrupt change in policy, made in response to federal pressure and an ongoing investigation, has left many families in our state feeling abandoned and uncertain about their children's future healthcare. The rally of at least 100 demonstrators outside the University of Michigan hospital underscores the community's strong opposition to this decision. As your constituent, I urge you to take immediate action to protect and restore access to these vital healthcare services for transgender youth in Michigan. Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel has already expressed disappointment in the hospitals' decisions, recognizing the critical nature of these services. Gender-affirming care, including puberty blockers and hormone treatments, is essential for the well-being of many transgender youth. The sudden cessation of these services puts vulnerable young people at risk and disrupts ongoing treatment plans. This decision appears to be influenced by an executive order from the previous administration aimed at limiting funding for hospitals offering gender-affirming care to minors. However, it's crucial to note that medical consensus supports the provision of such care, and its sudden withdrawal can have severe consequences for the mental and physical health of transgender youth. The potential ripple effect on other Michigan health institutions is deeply concerning. If this trend continues, it could create a healthcare desert for transgender youth in our state, forcing families to seek care out of state or forego necessary treatment altogether. I implore you to take a stand for the rights and well-being of all Michigan residents, regardless of age or gender identity. Please work to ensure that our healthcare institutions can provide comprehensive, evidence-based care without fear of political repercussions. Specifically, I ask that you: 1. Publicly oppose the discontinuation of gender-affirming care for minors in Michigan. 2. Introduce or support legislation that protects access to gender-affirming care for all ages. 3. Advocate for the autonomy of medical professionals to provide care based on established medical guidelines rather than political pressure. The health and future of many young Michiganders depend on your action. Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter.