The recent decision by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to rescind Directive 1341, which provided guidance for gender-affirming healthcare services for transgender veterans, has raised concerns among advocacy groups and affected individuals. This directive not only protected access to specific care but also ensured that healthcare providers used preferred pronouns, allowed veterans to use bathroom facilities according to their self-identified gender, and assigned rooms accordingly. The VA’s internal memo states that the rescission of Directive 1341 does not affect existing clinical guidance and reaffirms its commitment to providing care for all veterans. However, critics argue that this move creates uncertainty and fear among transgender veterans who now have to question whether it is safe for them to seek healthcare services at VA facilities.
Advocates had anticipated the revocation of Directive 1341, as research suggests that transgender individuals are more likely to serve in the military than the general population. Furthermore, studies show that sexual minority veterans, including LGBTQIA+, non-binary, intersex, and other veterans, have a higher likelihood of suicide compared to average veterans; this risk is even greater for transgender veterans. The VA’s internal memo also mentions conducting a comprehensive review of care related to trans-identifying veterans in the future.
This decision by the VA has sparked concerns about the safety and wellbeing of transgender veterans, who now face uncertainty regarding their healthcare services at VA facilities. It is crucial for the VA to reconsider its stance on this issue and ensure that all veterans receive appropriate care without fear or discrimination.
[Original Article](https://www.npr.org/2025/03/14/nx-s1-5328733/va-transgender-veterans-memo) #transgender #veterans’ #health [Visit GhostAI](https://ghostai.pro/)
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