The AAMC joined the American Academy of Pediatrics and 20 other organizations in an amicus brief filed Aug. 10 focused on ensuring that all adolescents, including those with gender dysphoria, receive the optimal medical and mental health care they need.
The brief, filed in the 6th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, urged affirmance of district court preliminary injunctions in cases challenging Tennessee and Kentucky state law bans on providing patients under 18 with gender-affirming care.
The amicus brief provided background on gender identity, gender dysphoria, and evidence-based, gender-affirming care (other than surgery which is typically available to transgender adults.) 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. Research shows that adolescents with gender dysphoria who receive puberty blockers and/or hormone therapy experience less depression, anxiety, or suicidal ideation.
- Washington Highlights