Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 26 September 2023
534. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Health if he is aware of a recent study (details supplied) that has found strong evidence of a link between autism and gender dysphoria and gender/body incongruence; whether his Department or the HSE has conducted any research into a link between these conditions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41082/23]
View answerThe Government is committed to the development by the HSE of a well-governed and patient-centered health care service for adults and children in the transgender community, in line with the Programme for Government.
The HSE’s Chief Clinical Officer (CCO) requested the National Quality and Patient Safety Directorate to review the interim Cass report and how it applies to clinical pathways from Ireland.
The Department welcomed this thorough, consultative and clinical 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 is currently advertising for the post of Clinical Lead for Transgender Services, who will be the Model of Care and Implementation Plan Development Lead for Transgender Care. The recruitment campaign opened on Thursday, 14th September 2023 and closed on Thursday, 12th October 2023 at 3pm.
Throughout this process, the HSE will address the waiting times faced by those who wish to access care for gender dysphoria. A key part of this work will see the HSE consulting with a wide range of stakeholders in the development of the new model of care. Including those who provide and use these services, and advocacy groups.
Additionally, the HSE aims to collaborate in an international longitudinal study that Dr Cass is planning to organise from the UK. The aim of this longitudinal research is to follow up with patients at set intervals to see how the care received for gender dysphoria and any underlying issues addressed their needs and impacted their lives. This study will give us an opportunity to work, and build relationships with international partners, and to gain learnings from much larger numbers.
The HSE is also working to identify an alternative pathway for children/young people experiencing protracted waiting times. Discussions are underway with the paediatric endocrinology service at Children's Health Ireland and also with a psychology service to work on an interim solution until a full dedicated multidisciplinary service is established. In treating children and young people, any decision is a clinical matter for the treating clinician, their patient and family, this applies also to the use of puberty blockers, as the international evidence base is continually evolving on this matter.
The Department is committed to the delivery of a high quality seamless and integrated service for people with gender identity issues.
With regards to the Autism aspect of this question, I have referred this query to the HSE for direct reply.
