U.S. bishops officially ban gender-affirming care at Catholic hospitals

U.S. Catholic bishops have officially banned gender-affirming care for transgender patients at Catholic hospitals, a decision made during a vote on October 25, 2023. This ban formalizes a process that has been ongoing for several years as the U.S. church has sought to address the complexities of transgender health care. The move reflects a significant stance by the church against gender-affirming treatments, which are often considered essential for the well-being of transgender individuals. This decision is likely to have profound implications for access to healthcare for transgender patients within Catholic healthcare systems.