Medical Article Likens Gender-Affirming Care Bans to Abuse
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In a groundbreaking medical article published by the American Academy of Pediatrics, doctors at Seattle Children’s Hospital have likened bans on gender-affirming care for minors to neglect and abuse. The article highlights the detrimental impact of withholding gender-affirming care for transgender and gender-diverse minors, stating that it “amounts to state-sanctioned medical neglect and emotional abuse.”
The year 2024 has seen a surge in anti-LGBTQ+ bills across the United States, with over 250 bills introduced, many of which specifically target the transgender community. Among the most common subjects of these bills are bans on gender-affirming care for minors, including the prescription of puberty blockers and hormones. Despite public pushback and an overwhelming wealth of research proving the safety and effectiveness of gender-affirming care, several states have already implemented such bans.
According to data from the American Civil Liberties Union, a staggering 508 anti-LGBTQ+ bills were introduced in 2023 alone. The medical article criticizes these legislative efforts, stating, “In recent years, we have witnessed a dangerous trend of transphobia and prejudice toward transgender and gender diverse (TGD) children. These legislative efforts operate under the guise of protecting children. In reality, they punish caregivers and physicians when they choose to support children.”
The article goes on to highlight that these bans deny children access to essential healthcare that has been proven to significantly decrease high rates of suicide and depression among transgender and gender-diverse youth. Furthermore, the increase in anti-LGBTQ+ and specifically anti-trans bills fuels discriminatory rhetoric that negatively impacts the mental health of these children and places their safety at risk.
Dr. Emily Georges, one of the authors of the article, emphasizes that gender-affirming care is a holistic, patient-centered approach that should be carried out in partnership with the patient, their family, and the medical provider. This approach aligns with the principles of any clinic visit for any child.
The publication of this article comes on the heels of Seattle Children’s Hospital filing a legal complaint against Texas attorney Ken Paxton. The hospital alleges that Paxton requested documents of under-18 patients from Texas who he believed had undergone gender-affirming care. The lawsuit argues that Paxton’s alleged request constitutes an overstep and an “unconstitutional attempt to investigate and chill potential interstate commerce and travel for Texas residents to another state.”
This concerning alleged request by Paxton follows his previous demand for a list of every transgender person in Texas, including their personal details and driving license information. The Texas attorney general’s office confirmed that no data was provided following his request, as it does not exist or could be accurately produced.
Texas is just one of several states that have successfully outlawed gender-affirming care for transgender individuals under the age of 18. It is worth noting that gender-affirming care has been widely available across the US for over a decade and is endorsed by major medical associations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American College of Physicians, the American Medical Association, the World Medical Association, and the World Health Organization.
The medical article sheds light on the dire consequences of banning gender-affirming care for minors. It calls for a reevaluation of these harmful policies and emphasizes the importance of prioritizing the well-being and healthcare needs of transgender and gender-diverse youth. As the fight for equality and inclusivity continues, it is crucial to address the systemic barriers that perpetuate discrimination and ensure that all individuals have access to the medically necessary care they deserve.
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gender-affirming care bans, abuse, medical article
