Story perspectives

HHS Pauses Exclusion Notices for Gender-Affirming Care Amid Lawsuit

1/8/2026

Summary

Story summary

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) paused exclusion notices for Medicare and Medicaid providers of gender-affirming care to children amid a Democratic-led states lawsuit.
HHS proposed rules to restrict access to gender-affirming care, arguing the standards are not met.
State attorneys general argue the measures unlawfully dictate medical standards.
A court filing confirms HHS will not issue exclusion notices while the case is pending, with deadlines in February and March.

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Story summary

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) paused exclusion notices for Medicare and Medicaid providers of gender-affirming care to children amid a Democratic-led states lawsuit.
HHS proposed rules to restrict access to gender-affirming care, arguing the standards are not met.
State attorneys general argue the measures unlawfully dictate medical standards.
A court filing confirms HHS will not issue exclusion notices while the case is pending, with deadlines in February and March.