EPATH/WPATH Statement on the Temporary Suspension of New Surgical Referrals in Wales

EPATH and WPATH are aware of reports regarding the temporary suspension of new gender-affirming surgical referrals from the Welsh Gender Service (WGS) while concerns relating to referral practices and clinical governance are investigated.

At this stage, the matters under review remain subject to an investigation. It would therefore be inappropriate to speculate on the causes of the reported concerns or to draw conclusions regarding individual clinicians, services, or organisations before the facts have been established. EPATH and WPATH support a fair and evidence-based process that allows the relevant facts to be thoroughly examined.

Our primary concern is the wellbeing of transgender and gender-diverse people affected by this decision. Many patients have already experienced significant waiting times for access to gender-affirming healthcare and may now face additional uncertainty regarding surgical care. For individuals whose treatment pathways have been disrupted, this situation may cause considerable distress, anxiety, and disappointment.

EPATH and WPATH support a transparent, timely, and evidence-based review and encourage all parties involved to work collaboratively to resolve any identified concerns as quickly as possible. We believe that meaningful engagement with patients, clinicians, service providers, commissioners, and surgical teams is essential to ensure that the outcomes of the review are informed, balanced, and focused on improving care.

Throughout this process, clear communication with affected patients and access to appropriate support should remain a priority. While concerns relating to clinical governance must be investigated thoroughly, patient welfare should remain central to all decision-making.

EPATH and WPATH remain committed to supporting evidence-informed, person-centred healthcare for transgender and gender-diverse people. We hope that the review process will provide clarity, identify any necessary improvements, and support the timely restoration of access to care for affected patients.