VA Orders Removal of Gender Identity Initiatives From Health Facilities

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has directed medical facilities nationwide to remove gender identity-related initiatives and rename a network of coordinators previously designated to assist LGBTQ veterans, according to an internal memorandum dated June 12.

The directive, signed by Veterans Health Administration Under Secretary for Health John J. Bartrum, instructs facilities to comply with executive orders issued by President Donald Trump regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion programs and federal policies concerning gender identity. Under the guidance, LGBTQ Veteran Care Coordinators will be redesignated as Care Coordinators, and facilities must review websites, training materials, communications, events, and other resources to ensure compliance.

The move has prompted questions about the future of programs developed to address health concerns and care access issues affecting LGBTQ veterans. Among the initiatives cited by medical professionals are PRIDE in All Who Served, a health education and support program, and CBT-PRISM, a mental health program based on cognitive behavioral therapy. Critics of the directive argue that such programs address disparities among LGBTQ veterans, while supporters say the changes will limit the funding of permanently damaging transgender drugs and surgeries for veterans.

The memorandum states that all veterans will continue to receive services and that programs specifically authorized by Congress will remain in place. VA officials have been given 14 days to certify compliance with the new requirements.

Previously, the UOJ reported that Patr. Theophilos awarded Trump with an Orthodox honor.