Phoenix Children’s Hospital Halts Child Gender Transitions Amid Trump Era Changes

By Staff Reporter |

Phoenix Children’s Hospital has halted its gender transition services for minors, a decision announced to parents this week. The pause follows an executive order signed by President Donald Trump that bans gender transitions for those under 19, titled “Protecting Children From Chemical and Surgical Mutilation.”

In a notice conveyed through patient portals, the hospital stated, “Due to the recent executive order issued on January 28, 2025, Phoenix Children’s is indefinitely pausing gender-affirming medical care for children under the age of 19.” This significant policy shift has left many families in turmoil.

The hospital, which previously promoted its Gender Support Program as the most comprehensive in the state, is now working to gradually wean children off puberty blockers and hormones previously administered as part of their care. Letters to parents from healthcare providers Vinny Chulani and Ashish Patel confirmed the end of these treatments.

For years, the Gender Support Program offered extensive services, including consultations on parenting strategies, endocrinological assessments, and referrals to mental health specialists. Additionally, the program provided guidance on social transition efforts, helping families navigate legal name and gender marker changes.

After significant scrutiny and media coverage, public information regarding the program had already begun to diminish. In previous years, the hospital had partnered with the Arizona Trans Youth and Parent Organization to foster community among families supporting gender-diverse children. However, recent developments have led to a retreat from such affiliations.

Advocacy groups have expressed strong disapproval of the hospital’s decision, characterizing it as a betrayal of the transgender community. They stress that gender-affirming care is vital for the mental and emotional well-being of transgender youth. A coalition of activists, including members from various organizations, issued a statement condemning the cessation of these services as an attack on the rights and health of families involved.

The statement included signatures from leaders of prominent organizations, highlighting a collective concern for the well-being of transgender minors and their families. It is evident that this decision has sparked a significant backlash from advocates who argue for the necessity of accessible healthcare for all youth.