Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 6 December 2023
189. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Health if he agrees that in order to be in line with WPATH, GPs should provide blood tests to trans people, regardless of where they are sourcing their hormones. [54114/23]
View answerThe Government is committed to the development by the HSE of a well-governed and patient-centred health care service for adults and children in the transgender community, in line with the Programme for Government.
The HSE National Quality and Patient Safety Directorate has reviewed the interim Cass report and how it applies to clinical pathways in Ireland. The Department welcomed this review of the interim Cass report, and has considered its implications. The Department also understands that based on the recommendations of this report, the HSE has identified the need to develop an updated and integrated Model of Care for transgender services in Ireland, informed by the best evidence-based clinical care for individuals who express gender incongruence or dysphoria.
The HSE is establishing a team to lead the development an updated model of care for the treatment of gender dysphoria. As an initial step, the HSE has advertised for the post of Clinical Lead for Transgender Services, who will develop the Model of Care and Implementation Plan for Transgender Care.
The HSE will consult with a wide range of stakeholders in the development of the new model of care, including those who use the services and advocacy groups.
Please be advised that GPs are private practitioners, most of whom hold contract(s) with the HSE for the provision of health services, such as under the GMS scheme for the provision of health services without charge to medical card and GP visit card holders. Clinical determinations are made by the GP concerned.
