The Trump administration has halted funding for gender transition surgeries for minors through Medicaid, President Donald Trump announced on Tuesday. In a post on Truth Social, he instructed Dr. Mehmet Oz, head of the US Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, to stop the use of the joint federal and state insurance program for such procedures.

During a press briefing at the White House, Dr. Oz expressed support for the decision, emphasizing the goal to protect children from potentially harmful medical practices. He stated, “We will not pay for these procedures that can cause irreversible harm to young bodies.”

This policy change follows a Department of Health and Human Services review which cited significant evidence gaps and safety concerns related to gender-affirming care. The rule ends federal Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) funding for treatments such as puberty blockers, cross-sex hormones, and surgeries for children and youth. These treatments are noted as potentially causing irreversible effects like infertility and impaired sexual function.

Dr. Oz added, “By ending federal funding for these procedures, we uphold scientific evidence, save taxpayer money, and above all, protect children from irreversible harm.” The new rule is set to be implemented on October 13 and does not affect mental health service coverage.

The decision aligns with actions taken by twenty-seven states that have restricted gender-affirming care for minors. The topic remains politically charged, with Republican lawmakers advocating for such restrictions and many Democrats viewing them as discriminatory.

Trump highlighted the direction many hospitals have taken, halting gender-affirming care, and predicted more institutions will follow. He urged followers to remember the stance of the Democratic Party on this issue in light of upcoming elections.

The situation is developing, and updates are anticipated.