U.S. Bishops Formalize Ban on Gender-Affirming Care at Catholic Hospitals

U.S. Catholic bishops have officially voted to ban gender-affirming care for transgender patients in Catholic hospitals. This decision formalizes revisions to their ethical and religious directives, guiding thousands of Catholic health care institutions across the country.

The bishops made this decision during a conference in Baltimore, where they overwhelmingly approved the measures. According to the Catholic Health Association, over one in seven patients in the U.S. are treated daily at Catholic hospitals, many of which serve as the only medical facilities in certain communities.

Despite the support for gender-affirming care from major medical organizations, most Catholic health institutions have historically taken a conservative stance on this issue, often not providing such care, which may include hormonal, psychological, and surgical treatments.

The newly formalized directives will allow bishops in their respective dioceses to enforce these guidelines. Bishop Robert Barron from Minnesota expressed the need for the church to make a strong statement regarding gender ideology.

The Catholic Health Association responded positively, acknowledging the bishops for incorporating feedback into the directives and reaffirming their commitment to treating all patients, including those who identify as transgender, with dignity and respect, consistent with Catholic social teaching.

However, voices from progressive religious factions express concern. Michael Sennett, a trans man involved with New Ways Ministry, emphasized that for many transgender individuals, gender-affirming care is not only a medical necessity but a spiritual imperative.

This sentiment reflects a broader divide within the Catholic Church on the issue of transgender rights, with some parishes and priests being more accepting than others. On the same day as the bishops' votes, leaders from several progressive religious denominations issued a statement supporting transgender, intersex, and nonbinary individuals, countering the narrative that faith communities do not affirm diverse gender identities.

They underscored the dignity of all individuals, created in the image of God. The bishops' decision comes alongside a broader discussion on immigration, where they also expressed concern for immigrants within their communities, marking a significant moment of unity on various social issues.

While the ban on gender-affirming care represents a clear stance from U.S. bishops, the conversation surrounding transgender rights and health care remains complex, with differing perspectives within the church and the larger society.