The Ministry of Health releases evidence brief on puberty blockers in gender-affirming care.
The New Zealand government has faced criticism for its proposed restrictions on access to puberty blockers and other forms of gender-affirming healthcare. The Ministry of Health has released an evidence brief regarding the use of these treatments, which has been met with mixed reactions from various stakeholders.
According to Green Party spokesperson Kahurangi Carter, the move by ACT party members to limit access to gender-affirming care is "transphobic" and aims to cause harm and division. However, the Ministry's position statement reaffirms that comprehensive care for young people navigating gender identity issues should be provided by an interprofessional team.
Carter emphasizes that meaningful action must go beyond statements and that New Zealand needs to resource and promote clear pathways for timely, free, and non-discriminatory access to all forms of gender-affirming healthcare. She argues that attempts to limit access risk undermining the well-being of trans and non-binary youth whose voices have been clear: affirming care saves lives.
The Ministry's evidence brief has sparked a heated debate about the balance between providing essential healthcare services and addressing concerns surrounding the use of puberty blockers. As the government continues to navigate this issue, advocates for trans rights are calling for a commitment to delivering equitable and accessible healthcare based on science and empathy.