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Chicago Hospital Halts Gender-Affirming Care Amid Federal Threats

1/22/2026

Summary

Story summary

Lurie Children’s Hospital in Chicago has paused prescribing gender-affirming medication to new patients under 18 due to threats from the Trump administration.
Health and Human Services General Counsel Mike Stuart announced an investigation referral on January 15, impacting Lurie and five other hospitals.
The hospital cited federal actions that threaten its ability to provide care as the reason for this decision.
Advocacy group Trans Up Front Illinois criticized the move, stating it instills fear among families and results from intimidation.
Other hospitals in Illinois have also restricted gender-affirming care amid similar pressures.

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Story summary

Lurie Children’s Hospital in Chicago has paused prescribing gender-affirming medication to new patients under 18 due to threats from the Trump administration.
Health and Human Services General Counsel Mike Stuart announced an investigation referral on January 15, impacting Lurie and five other hospitals.
The hospital cited federal actions that threaten its ability to provide care as the reason for this decision.
Advocacy group Trans Up Front Illinois criticized the move, stating it instills fear among families and results from intimidation.
Other hospitals in Illinois have also restricted gender-affirming care amid similar pressures.