When Trans Youth Need Care Most, Children’s Hospital LA Is Stepping Back – Statement from Bamby Salcedo

It is disappointing that Children’s Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA) continues to fall short in fully supporting trans youth when our youth most need people to care for them. During my eight years at the Center for TransYouth Health and Development, I saw how institutional barriers and political considerations often took precedence over genuine care. The Division of Adolescent Medicine was consistently undervalued, and despite CHLA’s extensive fundraising, the Trans Youth Program had to secure its own funding.

Thanks to the dedication of Dr. Olson and others, many young people have been able to receive the care they need. However, at a time when trans youth are especially vulnerable, CHLA’s decision to step back from this work is deeply concerning. We urge CHLA’s leadership to reconsider and reaffirm their commitment to the well-being of all young people, regardless of gender identity or expression.

Bamby Salcedo

President & CEO, The TransLatin@ Coalition