Media
Statement
Statement on Reported Healthcare Barriers Facing Trans People Moving to Ireland
PATHI
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The Professional Association for Trans Health Ireland (PATHI) is appalled by the ongoing systemic failure highlighted by The Journal Investigates wherein trans people who relocate to Ireland and are already receiving gender-affirming care in their home countries are forced onto a waiting list reportedly exceeding 13 years simply to maintain their care.
This situation is indefensible. Forcing individuals to interrupt essential medical care due to immigration or relocation is both medically unethical and deeply harmful. Gender-affirming care is not elective, it is vital, evidence-based healthcare. The fact that people must choose between their safety in a new home and continuity of care represents a profound policy failure.
Ireland cannot position itself as a safe, inclusive society while simultaneously denying access to basic, life-saving healthcare. The notion that someone undergoing stable, supervised care abroad must start from scratch and wait over a decade to re-access care is not only medically unnecessary, it is cruel. Trans people moving to Ireland have the capacity to make decisions about their own bodies and lives, and should be able to continue their care based on their free and informed consent.
PATHI calls for immediate intervention by the HSE and Department of Health to:
- Recognise and accept the validity of gender-affirming care received internationally;
- Establish clear, streamlined pathways for trans people relocating to Ireland to continue their care without delay;
- Ensure that all healthcare providers, including GPs, are supported and empowered to deliver informed consent-based care without unnecessary referral barriers;
- Develop a national policy that guarantees continuity of care for all trans people in Ireland, including immigrants, asylum seekers, and refugees.
Healthcare should not be subject to borders. Trans people moving to Ireland deserve timely, respectful, and uninterrupted access to the care they need to live full and healthy lives. This is a matter of equity, ethics, and basic human dignity.
PATHI recognises the urgent need for structural reform and remains committed to advocating for a healthcare system in Ireland that upholds international best practice. Trans people deserve better, and we will continue to work towards this.
For media enquiries or further comment, contact info@pathi.ie.
