Statement from AADA President Kenneth J. Tomecki, MD, FAAD

The American Academy of Dermatology Association strongly opposes recent efforts by state legislatures to restrict physiciansโ€™ ability to provide care to transgender youths. Legislation such as the bill enacted this spring in Arkansas as well as those proposed in several other states are a dangerous intrusion by government into medical decision-making.  

The AADA recognizes the dignity and identity of transgender individuals and advocates for dermatologistsโ€™ ability to provide therapy and procedures that help the mental and physical well-being of these and all patients. Evidence has shown that transgender individuals who are forced to forgo gender-affirming care face an increased risk of mental health disorders including substance abuse disorders, and have higher rates of suicide.

Transgender and gender-diverse individuals can benefit greatly from medical and surgical gender-affirming treatments. These treatments are often medically necessary for the health and well-being of these patients and are not to be considered as cosmetic or elective.  

Decisions about care should remain within the confines of the physician-patient relationship, guided by strong medical evidence and the best interests of the individual patient.ย 

[Source(s): American Academy of Dermatology, Newswise]