Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital in Tacoma has announced the closure of its pediatric gender-affirming clinic. The hospital informed families that the program will gradually wind down over the coming weeks, with all upcoming appointments being canceled. MultiCare, the nonprofit health system overseeing Mary Bridge, cited federal scrutiny and potential loss of Medicare and Medicaid funding as key factors influencing this decision.
In a communication to patients, MultiCare CEO Bill Robertson emphasized that without federal payments, the organization “would cease to exist.” The hospital revealed that over 62% of its patients rely on Medicare and Medicaid, highlighting the financial pressures facing healthcare providers in this environment.
Patient Impact and Transition Plans
According to the notice shared with patients, the pediatric clinic will cease operations in the coming weeks, with no plans to reschedule canceled appointments. For patients aged 18 and older currently receiving gender-affirming care, the hospital intends to transition them to their primary care providers when feasible. Meanwhile, for minors already undergoing treatment with puberty blockers or hormones, Mary Bridge will offer options for continued care, although securing alternative treatment may prove challenging.
Despite the closure of medical services, Mary Bridge will maintain behavioral health services, including mental health assessments and counseling. Families in need of medical gender-affirming care are directed to Seattle Children’s Hospital, which continues to operate a Gender Clinic that provides hormone therapy and accepts referrals from primary care providers.
Broader Trends in Pediatric Gender Clinics
Mary Bridge’s closure reflects a national trend, as various hospitals across the United States have either reduced or shut down pediatric gender clinics in response to increased federal scrutiny. Reports indicate that proposed changes to Medicare and Medicaid reimbursement policies have contributed to these closures. The Washington Post has highlighted similar actions taken by other facilities, while the Associated Press has reported on high-profile shutdowns of pediatric gender programs in multiple states.
Washington state has implemented a shield law designed to protect patients and providers engaged in gender-affirming care from civil or criminal actions originating from other states. Nonetheless, financial pressures linked to federal funding continue to impact healthcare providers. The Washington State Attorney General’s office has clarified the scope and limitations of this shield law, which was first established in 2023 and has since been reinforced.
Advocates and families have expressed their frustration with MultiCare’s decision, arguing that access to gender-affirming care is essential for the well-being of transgender youth. Research has indicated that such treatments can significantly reduce suicidal ideation among these individuals. Local media have covered protests outside the health system and the growing strain on families following the scaling back of services at Mary Bridge.
Moving forward, Mary Bridge has committed to working directly with affected patients to discuss options for continued care and maintain a continuity of treatment wherever possible. Families with urgent needs are encouraged to access crisis resources. For referrals for medical gender-affirming care, families can contact Seattle Children’s Gender Clinic at 206-987-2028 or visit its website for further information.
