Rush University Medical Center in Chicago has scaled back gender-transition treatments for minors, signaling a shift in the growing debate over youth transgender care. The hospital announced it will no longer initiate puberty blockers or cross-sex hormones for new patients under 18, though it will continue mental health support and ongoing care for those already in treatment.
This decision follows increased scrutiny of gender-affirming care for minors, with lawsuits and legislative battles erupting across the country. In Illinois, where state law strongly supports LGBTQ policies, this move is significant because it comes from a major institution long seen as a leader in progressive healthcare. Hospital officials cited a need to align with “emerging national standards” and ensure long-term safety and evidence-based practice.
Critics of gender-transition procedures for children argue that medical interventions at such young ages carry irreversible consequences and lack sufficient long-term research. Supporters of the hospital’s decision say it reflects growing caution in the medical community, especially after European countries like Sweden, the U.K., and Finland have also limited or paused similar treatments for minors.
Rush’s announcement adds pressure on other hospitals and clinics nationwide that still provide aggressive gender-transition services to youth.
Illinois lawmakers have not yet commented on whether the state will push back against this move. However, the decision could influence hospitals in other progressive states to reevaluate their policies
