Texas Children’s Hospital (TCH) is mandated to establish a “detransition clinic” following a $10 million settlement with state and federal authorities. This decision comes after the hospital was found to have contravened federal laws regarding the provision of gender-affirming care for minors, as stated in a press release from the Department of Justice (DOJ).
The establishment of the clinic marks a significant development, as it will be the first facility of its kind dedicated to reversing what the DOJ has termed “sex-rejecting procedures.” Allegations against TCH include submitting fraudulent billing to both public and private insurers to gain coverage for treatments like puberty blockers and cross-sex hormones administered to transgender youth. The DOJ indicated that these practices violated the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, along with the False Claims Act and federal fraud and conspiracy laws.
In addition to creating the new clinic, TCH is required to pay $10 million in damages and civil penalties, while also allocating funds toward the medical care of children who have undergone “detransition” procedures that they previously provided. The DOJ noted that TCH had taken significant steps that warranted credit for its cooperation in this matter and voluntarily agreed to the establishment of the clinic.
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche emphasized the commitment of the Justice Department to put an end to what he termed the destructive practice of gender-affirming care for children. He stated, “Today’s resolution protects vulnerable children, holds providers accountable, and ensures those harmed receive the care they need.”
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton also commented on the settlement, calling it a historic moment in the effort to combat the “radical transgender movement.” He asserted that the agreement not only facilitates the creation of the Detransition Clinic but also mandates accountability for those responsible for harming children through these medical practices.
