Story perspectives

Fear and Access: Transgender Care Under Political Attack

12/10/2025

Summary

Story summary

Adrian Shanker, a former health policy official, says the federal approach intimidates providers and restricts access.
He says the Office for Civil Rights is used politically, conflating gender-affirming care with criminal acts.
Shanker notes investigations reflect a broader campaign to suppress transgender medical services, especially under the Trump administration.
He says these actions create fear among providers, reducing services for transgender people already facing mental health challenges amid political attacks.

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Story summary

Adrian Shanker, a former health policy official, says the federal approach intimidates providers and restricts access.
He says the Office for Civil Rights is used politically, conflating gender-affirming care with criminal acts.
Shanker notes investigations reflect a broader campaign to suppress transgender medical services, especially under the Trump administration.
He says these actions create fear among providers, reducing services for transgender people already facing mental health challenges amid political attacks.