HHS Review Recommends Behavioral Therapy First for Gender Dysphoric Youth, Cites Cautious Approach to Medical Interventions

The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) released a comprehensive review of transgender health care, recommending a shift towards behavioral therapy as the primary approach for youths experiencing gender dysphoria, in lieu of widespread gender-affirming care. The review suggests a more cautious approach to medical interventions for young people. The HHS review advocates for prioritizing psychological and behavioral interventions. It suggests these methods should be more thoroughly explored as the first line of treatment for gender dysphoria in young patients. The review further suggests a more selective application of gender-affirming care, such as hormone therapy and surgery, for this age group. The review’s findings will likely fuel ongoing discussions within the medical community and among policymakers regarding the most appropriate standards of care for transgender youth.

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Date: May 1, 2025

Author

Mark Chiang