New HHS rules target care for transgender minors

Former President Trump has proposed new rules that would end gender-related care for minors, threatening hospitals that provide such services with the loss of all federal funding. This move has sparked significant backlash from advocates who anticipate legal challenges against the administration's actions.

President Trump signed an executive order aimed at fast-tracking the reclassification of cannabis, which is currently classified as a Schedule I drug. The order is intended to ease regulatory hurdles for medical research, although it does not legalize cannabis itself.

The Trump administration has initiated steps to eliminate transition-related care for transgender minors, which the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has classified as 'sex-rejecting procedures.' This move is part of a broader regulatory effort to restrict access to gender-affirming treatments, including Medicaid funding for puberty blockers and hormone therapies.

Flu cases in the United States have surged to nearly three million this season, prompting the CDC to issue warnings as families prepare for holiday gatherings. Hospitals are tightening visitor policies, and some schools are temporarily closing classrooms to mitigate the spread of the virus. NBC's Emilie Ikeda and Dr. Natalie Azar provide insights on how to stay healthy during this critical time.

The Trump administration has proposed two new rules aimed at banning gender-affirming care for minors, leveraging Medicare and Medicaid regulations to restrict access to treatments for transgender youth. This initiative, announced by RFK Jr. and Dr. Oz, is expected to impact not only those using public insurance but also those with private coverage.

The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has terminated seven grants worth millions of dollars to the American Academy of Pediatrics, intensifying its conflict with the organization, which is currently suing Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. over various health policies.

A Kansas school has opted to commence its winter break earlier than scheduled due to a significant outbreak of illnesses affecting both students and staff, resulting in over 40 individuals calling in sick.