Statement on Reported DIY Care Due to Distrust of NGS

The Professional Association for Trans Health Ireland (PATHI) is deeply alarmed, but not surprised, by the recent revelations, published by The Journal Investigates, surrounding the National Gender Service (NGS) and the unacceptable barriers trans people in Ireland continue to face when accessing gender-affirming care. The reports that many trans people have been left with no option but to self-medicate or pursue DIY healthcare reflect a system in crisis, one that is failing those it is meant to serve.

It is both unsafe and unjust that trans people are being pushed into these situations. While some trans people choose to self-medicate to retain autonomy over their own care, for many DIY is a last resort born out of desperation for healthcare in the face of long wait times, clinical gatekeeping, and a lack of trust in institutional care. This reality speaks volumes about the systemic shortcomings of the NGS and the urgent need for reform.

PATHI stands for safe, evidence-based, and accessible gender-affirming healthcare. We advocate for an informed consent model delivered in primary care, endorsed by global Standards of Care and practiced in many countries such as Australia, Canada, France, Iceland, New Zealand, Spain, and Thailand, that respects bodily autonomy, centres lived experience, and follows international best practice.

We call on the HSE, St John of Gods Service, and policymakers to take immediate action by:

• Expanding access to informed consent pathways through primary and community care;
• Providing services such as blood tests without barriers to those engaged in DIY care to reduce any potential harm that could occur;
• Ending harmful gatekeeping practices and the current centralised, single gender clinic model that creates roadblocks;
• Increasing funding and training for all healthcare professionals to ensure competent, trans-affirming care at all levels, particularly for community GPs and nurses;
• Meaningfully including and engaging trans people in the design and governance of healthcare services;
• Ensuring that there is full transparency and accountability in the oversight and restructuring of the NGS and overall system of care.

PATHI remains committed to supporting healthcare professionals, advocating for ethical care, and amplifying the voices of trans people across Ireland. The current situation is not just a health crisis, it is a human rights issue. Trans people deserve better. Ireland must do better!

For media inquiries or further comment, please contact us at info@pathi.ie.

Photo Credit: The Journal