AACAP Urges Science-Driven, Compassionate Care Following HHS Proposed Rules
The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) is deeply concerned by the proposed rules issued by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services that would prohibit state Medicaid agencies from using federal funds to support gender-affirming care and prohibit Medicare- and Medicaid-participating hospitals from providing gender-affirming care procedures.
These rules follow an Executive Order issued by President Trump in January, Protecting Children from Chemical and Surgical Mutilation, that directed federal agencies to curtail access to gender-affirming care. The report and related federal agency guidance and proposed rules mischaracterize our understanding of the current scientific literature and minimize the importance of families and physicians in addressing the mental health impacts of gender-related distress and discrimination.
Care for transgender and gender-diverse youth must be grounded in science, guided by trained professionals with real-world clinical and research experience, and centered on the individual needs and experiences of youth and their families. AACAP remains committed to supporting psychiatrists in providing expert, compassionate care to all children and adolescents and urges policymakers to prioritize rigorous, evidence-based standards in considering youth mental health.
For further recommendations, please see AACAP’s Policy Statement on Access to Gender Affirming Care.
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The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry promotes the healthy development of children, adolescents, and families through advocacy, education, and research. Child and adolescent psychiatrists are the leading physician authority on children’s mental health. For more information, please visit www.aacap.org
Media Contact:
Rob Grant, Communications Director
202.966.7300
rgrant@aacap.org
www.aacap.org