The recent UK Cass Review critically evaluated the Tavistock Gender Identity Development Service (GIDS) – the largest gender clinic in the world – which served trans and gender-diverse youth from 1989 until recently. Those who oppose gender-affirming care for trans and gender diverse youth have taken some of the findings. (Photo: Getty Images/ Manu Vega)
Gender-affirming healthcare for transgender youth has sparked intense debate globally. In South Africa, we need to significantly improve accessibility throughout the country, ensure services are well-resourced, include trained healthcare providers skilled in gender affirming care, and offer comprehensive care that integrates mental health and social services, write Jenna-Lee de Beer-Procter and Pierre Brouard, on behalf of fellow board members of the Professional Association for Transgender Health South Africa.
The discourse around transgender healthcare, particularly for young people, has become increasingly contentious.
In a recent opinion piece by Spotlight and republished News24, Dr Janet Giddy, Dr Allan Donkin, and associate professor Reitze Rodseth criticised gender-affirming care for young people, raising several concerns. As board members of the Professional Association of Transgender Healthcare South Africa (PATHSA), we offer a different analysis, based on our extensive experience and expertise in transgender healthcare.
South Africans need to be in the know if we want to create a prosperous future. News24 has kept the country informed for 25 years, and we’re about to enter a new chapter of fearless journalism. Join our free subscription trial to unlock this story and a world of news aimed to inform, empower, and inspire.