Children’s Hospital Los Angeles Cites Insurmountable Legal and Financial Barriers
After more than three decades of providing specialized, affirming care to transgender and gender-diverse youth, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA) will permanently close its Center for Transyouth Health and Development on July 22, 2025.
Hospital officials cited mounting legal and financial challenges stemming from recent administrative directives and proposed legislation as the driving forces behind the difficult decision. Leadership described the closure as unavoidable, despite CHLA’s longstanding commitment to the LGBTQ+ community and its reputation as a leading provider of evidence-based, medically necessary gender-affirming care for young people.
An internal memo acquired by Fox News said, “CHLA continues to face significant operational, legal, and financial risks stemming from the shifting policy landscape at both the state and federal levels. Over the past several months, California’s deepening budget crisis, President Trump’s executive orders, proposed federal legislation and rulemaking, and growing economic uncertainty have made the situation even more dire.”
Team members at the center were informed of the decision with heavy hearts, according to a hospital statement. CHLA acknowledged the profound impact the closure will have on both staff and the broader community it serves.
Current patients are encouraged to call (323) 361-2153 to schedule or reschedule appointments before the closure. Additional support is available through CHLA’s Patient Relations line at (323) 361-4682.
For those in immediate crisis, the hospital referred families and individuals to trusted national support services:
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Call 988 (available 24/7)
- Trans Lifeline: U.S. 1-877-565-8860 | Canada 1-877-330-6366 | Spanish: Oprime 2
- The Trevor Project: Call 1-866-488-7386 or text START to 678-678