Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital in Tacoma, Washington, has officially closed its pediatric gender-affirming clinic. The decision follows a notification to families that the program will wind down over the coming weeks, effectively ceasing all gender-affirming medical treatments for patients under 18. The move has raised concerns among families and advocates who see this as a critical loss of healthcare services.
In a message to patients, MultiCare, the nonprofit health system that operates Mary Bridge, cited significant federal scrutiny and the potential loss of Medicare and Medicaid funding as key reasons for the closure. A statement from MultiCare’s CEO, Bill Robertson, highlighted the organization’s precarious financial situation, stating that without federal payments, MultiCare “would cease to exist.” Approximately 62% of Mary Bridge’s patients are dependent on Medicare and Medicaid, which places considerable pressure on the hospital’s ability to continue offering certain services.
Impacts on Patients and Families
The patient notification indicated that upcoming appointments would be canceled and not rescheduled. For patients aged 18 and older currently receiving gender-affirming care, the hospital plans to transition them to their existing primary care providers when possible. Children under 18 who are already on hormone treatments or puberty blockers will be presented with options for ongoing care, but the hospital cautioned that finding alternative services may be challenging.
Despite the closure of the medical gender clinic, Mary Bridge assures families that it will maintain behavioral health services, including mental health assessments and counseling. For those seeking medical gender-affirming care, Seattle Children’s Hospital remains an option, offering similar services and accepting referrals from primary care providers.
Wider Context and Legal Protections
Mary Bridge’s closure is part of a broader trend across the United States, where hospitals are shutting down or scaling back pediatric gender clinics under increasing federal scrutiny. Reports indicate that various healthcare providers face challenges related to proposed regulatory changes that could impact Medicare and Medicaid reimbursements. Earlier this year, investigations by the Department of Justice into gender-affirming care for minors have also contributed to this national trend.
In Washington, a shield law exists to protect patients and healthcare providers involved in gender-affirming care from out-of-state civil or criminal actions. However, these protections do not alleviate the financial challenges hospitals face when federal funding is at stake. The Washington State Attorney General’s office has provided public guidance on the scope and limitations of this law, first enacted in 2023 and subsequently reinforced.
Advocates and families have voiced their frustration over MultiCare’s decision, emphasizing the importance of gender-affirming care, which research links to lower rates of suicidal ideation among transgender youth. Protests have occurred outside MultiCare facilities, highlighting the community’s push for continued access to these vital services.
Next Steps for Affected Families
Mary Bridge has committed to working directly with affected patients to discuss available options and strive for continuity of care. Families in urgent need are encouraged to reach out to crisis resources. Those seeking referrals for medical gender-affirming care can contact Seattle Children’s Gender Clinic at 206-987-2028 or visit its website for additional details and support information.
The closure of the pediatric gender clinic at Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital underscores the complex interplay between healthcare, policy, and access to necessary medical services. As debates surrounding gender-affirming care continue, the impact on youth and families remains a critical concern.
