CMA Calls for Diagnostic Codes for De-Transitioners
April 15, 2026
Recently, members of the Catholic Medial Association submitted comments of support to the CDC asking that agency to develop diagnostic codes that would benefit those with a history of gender dysphoria seeking safe and ethical help.
To amplify that message, CMA took further action in a letter sent to the CDC on April 15. This letter was a joint statement which included CMA, National Catholic Bioethics Center (NCBC), National Association of Catholic Nurses USA (NACN-USA), and National Catholic Partnership on Disability (NCPD). The letter can be found here.
“Unfortunately, there is evidence of insurance refusal to cover treatments to restore physical and psycho-social health, even though there are individuals living in physical agony as well as with crippling mental and psychological anguish. Moreover, increasingly de-transitioners are forced to pay out of pocket, or rely on charity, even when they have insurance,” the letter states.
Currently, the ICD-10-CM, used for diagnostic coding, contains no codes related to those with gender dysphoria who decide to desist or de-transition. This is particularly important for those who underwent sex-rejecting interventions, whether medical or surgical. Without codes pertinent to their concerns, these individuals are essentially invisible to the health care system, and very often are unable to obtain insurance coverage for the beneficial treatments they seek.
CMA President David Hilger, M.D., , commends all those who joined this endeavor, stating, “A Christ-centered approach to health care requires attention to every person in need, regardless of their lifestyle and personal story. A significant obstacle to optimal care for desisters and de-transitioners can be removed with the establishment of diagnostic codes applicable to their struggles. With the CDC’s help, these individuals can be treated with the respect and dignity they deserve.”