Statement from the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Oklahoma Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics on Gender-Affirming Care

The American Academy of Pediatrics, along with its Oklahoma Chapter, are committed to the attainment of optimal physical, mental and social health of all children in the state of Oklahoma and across the country – including transgender and gender diverse youth. We strongly support access to health care for all individuals regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation.

Our organizations strongly oppose any legislation or regulation that would discriminate against gender-diverse individuals, including children and adolescents, or limit access to comprehensive evidence-based care which includes the provision of gender-affirming care. Any discrimination based on gender identity or expression is damaging to the socioemotional health of children and families as evidenced by increased risk of suicide in this population.

Our organizations also oppose any action that would interfere with the physician-patient relationship and with parental involvement in making medical decisions for their own children. We stand with our physician members and the patients they care for in Oklahoma and across the country today and every day.

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The American Academy of Pediatrics is an organization of 67,000 primary care pediatricians, pediatric medical subspecialists and pediatric surgical specialists dedicated to the health, safety and well-being of infants, children, adolescents and young adults.