Open Door Community Health Centers recently stopped accepting new patients under the age of 19 for gender-affirming medication. The Humboldt County health system cited federal funding risks and new regulatory pressures as the primary drivers for this policy shift. While current patients remain unaffected by the change, those seeking to start hormone treatment for the first time must now look elsewhere for care.
Tory Starr, CEO of Open Door, stated that the decision was made to ensure the organization remains compliant with federal laws and contractual obligations. According to Starr, the health center is working to protect its status as a Federally Qualified Health Center, which allows it to provide general medical services to the broader community. The leadership maintains that the decision was necessary after a review of risks tied to federal directives.
Opposition to the move is significant. A letter signed by 350 community members, including medical providers and parents, argues that Open Door could have maintained its care standards despite federal pressure. Lark Doolan, executive director of Queer Humboldt, criticized the policy as discriminatory and pointed out the practical barriers it creates for youth in rural areas who rely on local lab work and clinical support for their treatments.
Open Door continues to offer behavioral health and primary care services for all youth. The organization directs new patients seeking gender-affirming medication to alternative providers like Planned Parenthood or online platforms. Local advocates remain focused on pushing for a policy reversal, emphasizing the impact this change has on the accessibility of care for transgender youth in the region.