Head of HSE Gender Healthcare to Step Down Following New Care Model
The head of the Health Service Executive (HSE) gender healthcare services, Dr. Karl Neff, is set to leave his position at the end of this year. Dr. Neff, who is a consultant endocrinologist, was appointed to this leadership role earlier in 2024 to oversee and improve gender-affirming care across Ireland.
A spokesperson for the HSE officially confirmed his upcoming departure this week. During his time in the role, Dr. Neff was responsible for drafting a new model of care for gender healthcare services. This model was designed to change how the health service supports patients seeking gender-related medical treatment.
The development of this new framework has been a significant priority for the HSE, as the demand for gender healthcare services has increased in recent years. The new model aims to provide a more structured and efficient approach for patients navigating the Irish public health system.
While Dr. Neff will be stepping down, the HSE has indicated that work on implementing the new model will continue. The organization is expected to provide further updates regarding the leadership of the department and the next steps for the gender healthcare service in the coming months.