A trans rights organization in Montreal has raised concerns that McGill University’s student health clinic is declining hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to certain American students due to worries about repercussions from the Trump administration. The Montreal Trans Patient Union (TPU), which advocates for trans healthcare in Montreal, has been engaging in regular discussions with medical professionals from the Student Wellness Hub to enhance care for trans individuals. During a recent meeting in March, TPU member Emma Gimbert disclosed that doctors at the wellness hub mentioned a policy change, stating they would not prescribe HRT to American students under 19 years old citing Executive Order 14187 issued by Donald Trump in January 2025.
According to the order, aimed at “protecting children from chemical and surgical mutilation,” U.S. health-care providers offering gender-affirming care to individuals under 19 could face consequences. This decision by McGill has surprised many, including Gimbert, who expressed disbelief that a U.S. executive order could impact medical practices in Canada. The TPU administrator, speaking anonymously due to concerns about potential targeting, criticized the new policy as unreasonable.
During the meeting, McGill’s medical and administrative directors, along with healthcare providers offering gender-affirming care, acknowledged that they had denied HRT to two American students under 19. The decision was based on guidance from the Canadian Medical Protective Association (CMPA) due to concerns over potential legal actions and challenges related to the political climate. Despite McGill’s refusal to confirm the denial of care to U.S. students or clarify its policy for providing gender-affirming care, the university emphasized that licensed physicians make medical decisions independently.
The TPU administrator highlighted the importance of transparency and criticized McGill’s lack of openness regarding the situation. The organization stressed that international students, including Americans, rely on the wellness hub for timely healthcare services. Trans rights advocate Celeste Trianon underscored the significance of HRT for trans individuals, emphasizing its physiological and mental health benefits.
While only a few U.S. students have been affected thus far, the TPU anticipates more students seeking gender-affirming care at McGill could face challenges in the future. The situation has drawn concerns from advocacy groups like Egale Canada and regulatory bodies like the Quebec College of Physicians, emphasizing the need for inclusive and accessible healthcare for all individuals, irrespective of their nationality or background.
