The Alaska State Medical Board is urging lawmakers to restrict hormonal and surgical treatments for minors seeking to transition from one gender to another. Governor Mike Dunleavy appointed the board’s members.
They claim that such treatments lack sufficient evidence of long-term benefits and pose risks of irreversible harm. The board’s statement was sent to legislators on Friday.
The medical board’s decision has significant implications for transgender youth in Alaska. Many advocates argue that restricting access to gender-affirming care will have devastating consequences for these young people.
Meanwhile, Alaska’s Medicaid program began covering gender transition treatments in 2021. This followed a class-action lawsuit filed by transgender Alaskans.
However, private insurers in the state are not required to cover the cost of gender-affirming services. A bill to ban certain forms of gender-affirming care for minors was introduced last year.
The proposed legislation has sparked intense debate. Supporters argue that it is necessary to protect vulnerable youth, while opponents claim it will deny them essential care.
Representative Jamie Allard sponsored the bill, but it did not advance. More than half of US states have enacted similar bans.
Furthermore, the medical board comprises five physicians, one physician assistant, and two public members. Chair Dr. Brent Taylor is a retired surgeon.
Taylor emphasized the board’s focus on credentialing and ensuring healthcare providers follow established guidelines. He made these comments during his confirmation hearing earlier this month.
The confirmation hearing allowed lawmakers to question Taylor about his views. He maintained that the board’s role is to protect the public, not to make policy.
In addition, Representative Jubilee Underwood praised the board’s stance. Underwood celebrated the move to restrict transgender care for minors.
The debate around gender-affirming treatments continues. Lawmakers are considering the board’s proposal.
The proposal has also sparked concern among medical professionals. Some argue that it will limit their ability to provide essential care.
The proposal to restrict transgender care has sparked debate, highlighting the ongoing discussion around gender-affirming treatments and Governor Mike Dunleavy.
News story originally published by Anchorage Daily News,
