Florida Medical Boards Approve Guidelines for Transgender Care
Florida Medical Boards Approve Rules for Gender-Affirming Care, Sparking Controversy
In a landmark move, Florida medical boards have given their approval to a set of rules surrounding gender-affirming care for transgender individuals. This development is a significant step forward in implementing a new law backed by Governor Ron DeSantis. The rules specifically address the use of puberty blockers and hormone-replacement therapy in both children and adults.
One key component of the approved rules is the inclusion of “informed consent” forms. These forms contain language emphasizing the speculative nature of gender-affirming care and the potential risks associated with medical treatments. Critics argue that these statements are inflammatory, unnecessary, and scientifically inaccurate. Renowned Yale University School of Medicine professor, Meredithe McNamara, described the language as misleading and not supported by current research.
During a joint meeting of the state Board of Medicine and the state Board of Osteopathic Medicine, numerous speakers voiced their opposition to the approved rules and forms. Physician Michael Haller, a professor and chief of endocrinology at the University of Florida, argued that the push for seemingly insufficient evidence against gender-affirming care was deeply problematic. Haller highlighted the harmful consequences of neglecting the treatment of children diagnosed with gender dysphoria.
In response to the backlash, Board of Medicine member Hector Vila, a Tampa physician, offered an explanation for the use of the term “poor-quality” studies. Vila stated that the term served as standard medical terminology to describe studies that fail to meet the high-quality standards of the medical field.
The approval of these rules and forms aligns with the new law signed by Governor DeSantis in May. The legislation bans the use of puberty blockers and hormone-replacement therapy for children diagnosed with gender dysphoria. However, an exception was made for children currently undergoing such treatments, allowing them to continue. The law also requires the creation of informed-consent forms for transgender patients seeking gender-affirming care, which adults, children, and parents must sign. Medical professionals who violate these regulations could face serious penalties, including the revocation of their licenses and potential felony charges.
While the implementation of these rules and forms is a victory for Governor DeSantis and like-minded conservatives, they have faced considerable opposition. Critics argue that gender-affirming care has proven its efficacy over decades and that the laws restricting access to such care are based on misguided beliefs. Steven Rocha, a trans man and policy director for the LGBTQ youth-advocacy group PRISM Florida, emphasized the importance of gender-affirming care and the dangers of limiting access.
Notably, Florida is one of many Republican-led states that have passed measures to restrict or prohibit gender-affirming care for transgender individuals. Governor DeSantis has made this issue one of his key priorities as he pursues a potential presidential run. However, similar restrictions imposed by DeSantis and the Republican-controlled Legislature have faced significant challenges in federal court. U.S. District Judge Robert Hinkle recently blocked Florida’s ban on puberty blockers and hormone therapy, calling it politically motivated and discriminatory. The state is currently appealing these decisions.
As the battle over gender-affirming care unfolds, the voices of healthcare professionals, activists, and transgender individuals themselves are becoming increasingly crucial. The ongoing debates highlight the critical need for accurate information and a comprehensive understanding of the medical and psychological well-being of transgender individuals.
