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Catholic Health Association of the United States Statement on the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops' Revisions to the Ethical and Religious Directives for Catholic Health Care Services

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 12, 2025
Contact: Marie Johnson

A Statement by Sr. Mary Haddad, RSM, President and CEO

WASHINGTON, DC — "The revised Ethical and Religious Directives (ERDs) for Catholic Health Care Services, recently approved by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), reaffirm the Church's teaching on the dignity of all persons and their right to life from conception to natural death. From our initial review of this seventh edition of the ERDs, the Catholic Health Association (CHA) appreciates that the USCCB incorporated much of the input we and our members provided during the revision process. The changes reflect our health care ministry's ongoing commitment to serve those who are most vulnerable; promote the common good; and provide holistic care for the mind, body, and spirit according to our Catholic teaching and tradition.  

"While CHA will undergo a thorough review of the document in the days and weeks ahead with our members, the changes made in this new edition of the ERDs clarify and affirm current clinical practices. Regarding the new directives for the care of transgender persons, these changes are consistent with Catholic health care practice that does not allow for medical interventions that alter sexual characteristics absent an underlying condition.

“Catholic providers will continue to welcome those who seek medical care from us and identify as transgender. We will continue to treat these individuals with dignity and respect, which is consistent with Catholic social teaching and our moral obligation to serve everyone, particularly those who are marginalized. Catholic health care will also continue to advocate for the right of everyone to access high-quality health care.”


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The Catholic Health Association of the United States is the national leadership organization of the Catholic health ministry, representing the largest nonprofit provider of health care services in the nation.

  • 1 in 7 patients in the U.S. is cared for in a Catholic hospital each day.
  • Catholic health care, which includes more than 2,200 hospitals, nursing homes, long-term care facilities, systems, sponsors, and related organizations, serves the full continuum of health care across our nation.