The AAMC joined the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Medical Association, and others in an amicus brief filed July 25 focused on ensuring that all adolescents, including those with gender dysphoria, receive the optimal medical and mental health care they need.
The amicus brief supports a federal court challenge in Poe v. Labrador to H.B. 71, which effectively bans health care providers from providing patients under 18 with gender-affirming care. The amicus brief supports plaintiffs’ motion for a preliminary injunction and addresses evidence-based gender-affirming care (other than surgery which is typically available to transgender adults.)
The brief provides background on gender identity and gender dysphoria. It details the professionally accepted medical guidelines for treating adolescents with gender dysphoria, the scientifically rigorous process by which the guidelines were developed, and the evidence that gender-affirming care is effective. The brief warns the court that H.B. 71, if not enjoined, will result in irreparable harm to adolescents with gender dysphoria by denying crucial care to those who need it.