Assistant Secretary for Health issues public health message urging providers to refuse puberty blockers, hormones and surgery for minors
- Date
- Actor
- Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Health (Adm. Brian Christine)
- Agency
- Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)
- Type
- Guidance/memo
Summary
A public health message signed by Brian Christine on Dec. 18, 2025, issued under the Public Health Service Act's health-information authority, tells providers, families and policymakers that the Nov. 2025 HHS evidence review shows an unfavorable risk-benefit profile for puberty blockers, cross-sex hormones and surgery for minors. It recommends that providers refuse these treatments, prioritize psychosocial assessment and counseling, and educate families about the weak evidence. It criticizes WPATH and Endocrine Society guidelines. It was released the same day as the Kennedy declaration and the CMS proposed rules.
Status
Issued; the court that vacated the Kennedy declaration did not vacate this message as far as sources show.
As recorded in the data of . Check the sources for anything newer.