Penn Medicine Ends Gender Transition Surgeries for Minors Following Federal Directive
The University of Pennsylvania’s prestigious medical school has decided to cease performing gender transition surgeries on minors, aligning with a recent executive order from President Donald Trump. This notable policy shift underscores the broader national debate regarding healthcare provisions for transgender minors.
As reported by The Daily Penn, the student newspaper, Penn Medicine has officially announced it will no longer conduct these surgeries on individuals under 19. Dr. Patrick Brennan, the institution’s Chief Medical Officer and Senior Vice President, stated that this change is specific to “gender-affirming surgical procedures,” aiming to comply with new federal guidelines.
According to Dr. Brennan, “This is a difficult decision that we know impacts patients and families who place their trust in our care teams.” He further emphasized Penn Medicine’s dedication to maintaining a supportive environment for LGBTQ+ individuals, even as they adapt to legal requirements.
The policy change is a direct response to an executive order by President Trump. This order, implemented shortly after taking office, prohibits federal support for gender transition procedures on minors, including both chemical interventions and surgeries.
The executive order explicitly bans the use of federal funds for treatments such as puberty blockers and cross-sex hormones, as well as surgeries that alter a minor’s biological sexual characteristics. It instructs federal agencies to ensure compliance by institutions that receive federal funding.
This move by Penn Medicine comes amidst a broader legislative trend, with over 24 states enacting bans on various types of gender transition procedures for minors due to potential long-term health impacts. Some of these states include Alabama, Florida, Texas, and Missouri, among others.
The American College of Pediatricians has highlighted possible risks associated with these procedures. Puberty blockers, for instance, have been linked to several adverse effects, including mood disorders and cognitive impairment. Cross-sex hormones may increase the risk of severe health issues such as heart disease and diabetes over time.
This announcement coincided with a communication from the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services to hospitals, seeking detailed information regarding the informed consent processes for minors diagnosed with gender dysphoria. The letter also requested updated clinical practice guidelines and financial data related to federally funded procedures.
This article was originally written by www.christianpost.com
