Their Transgender Child’s Health Care Had Ended. What Now?

NYT Homepage

by Joseph Goldstein

February 19, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The article highlights the challenges faced by transgender adolescents and their families after NYU Langone Health, a leading medical institution in New York City, announced it would no longer provide gender-related care for transgender youth. Parents were left stunned when they received calls from hospital staff informing them that treatments such as hormone prescriptions and puberty blockers would be discontinued. This decision came under pressure from the federal government, leaving many families scrambling to find alternative healthcare providers for their children. The abrupt termination of care has created significant concerns among parents, who worry about whether new doctors will face similar pressures and stop providing gender-related treatment. Some parents also expressed confusion about what happens to medical devices, such as puberty-blocking implants, that were previously inserted in their children’s bodies. These devices require periodic removal or monitoring, raising questions about who will manage this process now that the hospital is no longer involved. The situation underscores the broader challenges faced by transgender youth and their families in accessing consistent and reliable healthcare. Parents are left to navigate an uncertain landscape, unsure of where to turn for ongoing care. The article emphasizes the emotional and logistical strain placed on families as they seek alternative providers while worrying about the long-term health and well-being of their children. This story highlights the importance of stable and accessible healthcare for transgender adolescents and the potential consequences of sudden changes in medical policies. It also sheds light on the vulnerability of this patient population, who rely on specialized care to support their physical and emotional needs. The broader implications of such decisions could have a ripple effect on other families facing similar situations, as they too may struggle to find continued support for their children’s healthcare. Ultimately, the article serves as a call to action for policymakers, medical institutions, and society at large to address the unique healthcare needs of transgender youth and ensure that they receive the care and support they need without fear of abrupt changes or discrimination.

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Originally published on NYT Homepage on 2/19/2026