Catholic Bishops Firm on Transgender Care Ban

Thu Nov 13 2025 03:59:54 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

U.S. Catholic bishops have officially banned gender-affirming care for transgender patients at Catholic hospitals, marking a significant step in the church's stance on transgender health.

In a decisive move during their conference in Baltimore, U.S. Catholic bishops voted overwhelmingly to formalize a ban on gender-affirming medical care for transgender patients at Catholic health facilities. This action aligns with long-standing conservative practices within many Catholic institutions where such care has not been offered. Health associations supporting gender-affirming care oppose the new guidelines, which stem from previous Vatican and U.S. bishop documents regarding gender identity. The Catholic Health Association acknowledged the bishops' decision while emphasizing their commitment to treating all patients with dignity.

U.S. Catholic bishops voted Wednesday to implement a ban on gender-affirming care for transgender patients at Catholic hospitals. This decision was made during their annual conference in Baltimore and formalizes a conservative approach that most Catholic health centers have adhered to for years.

Over 7,000 Catholic healthcare facilities across the United States serve significant numbers of patients daily, with many representing the only healthcare access in certain communities.

Major medical organizations advocate for gender-affirming care, which can include hormonal, psychological, and surgical treatments. However, with this new directive, bishops will have the authority to enforce these regulations in their respective dioceses.

Bishop Robert Barron from Minnesota's Winona-Rochester diocese remarked, 'It's critical for the church to take a solid stance on gender ideology.'

The Catholic Health Association expressed gratitude for the bishops integrating their feedback, stating that they will continue to provide care with dignity to all, including transgender individuals.

This guideline announcement follows earlier recognitions from the Vatican and aligns with the 2023 doctrinal note emphasizing the Catholic church's position against interventions that transform sexual characteristics.

Responding to the bishops' decision, progressive religious leaders from various denominations affirmed their support for transgender and nonbinary rights, highlighting a diverse viewpoint within broader religious communities.