Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 7 March 2024
353. Deputy Mark Ward asked the Minister for Health for a timeframe for the fully domestic provision of gender and sexual health services which are in line with international best practice and based on informed consent; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11273/24]
View answerAs the Deputy may be aware, the HSE has identified the need to develop an updated and integrated Model of Care for transgender services, informed by the best evidence-based clinical care for individuals who express gender incongruence or dysphoria.
In this regard, the HSE is in the process of establishing a multi-disciplinary team and the position of Clinical Lead for Transgender Services has been offered to an applicant. This person, once in place, will lead the team to design and agree a Model of Care for transgender healthcare in Ireland and to form an implementation plan.
It is important that the HSE is given time and space to consider all of the issues and develop a Model of Care that will appropriately serve those who are experiencing gender incongruence / dysphoria.
There is a clear and well-established approach to the development of this model of care which will incorporate best available clinical evidence and incorporates input from healthcare professionals, patient advocates and those with lived experience.
My department welcomes the development of a model of care which will deliver a high quality seamless and integrated service for people with gender identity issues.
