HEALTH

Houston Hospital to Open Detransition Clinic After Settlement

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Houston: Texas Children's Hospital agreed on Friday, May 15, to create the nation's first detransition clinic as part of a settlement announced by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton resolving a years-long investigation into gender-affirming care and billing practices at the 1,000-bed hospital. The settlement, coordinated with the U.S. Department of Justice, also required personnel changes and a monetary payment to the state. Under the deal announced Friday, the hospital must fire five doctors who performed transgender procedures on minors, pay $10 million to Texas for alleged improper Medicaid billing, and halt gender-affirming treatments for children; the hospital said it settled "to protect our resources" while the DOJ coordinated the matter this week.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

2022: Texas Children's stopped providing hormone treatments to transgender children and teens.
2023: State and federal inquiries expanded into pediatric transgender care practices and billing.
Early 2024: Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton sued the hospital alleging violations of state law.
May 15, 2024: Paxton announced settlement requiring a detransition clinic, dismissal of five doctors, and a $10 million payment.
This week: DOJ coordinated aspects of the settlement while other courts ruled on access in separate states.

Why This Matters to You

This settlement impacts healthcare for transgender children in Texas. If you have a transgender child, their treatment options may change. It's crucial to stay informed about your child's healthcare rights and options.

The Bottom Line

Texas Children's Hospital will now host the nation's first detransition clinic. This comes after a settlement over alleged improper practices and billing. The hospital also agreed to fire five doctors and pay $10 million to Texas. If you're concerned about these changes, reach out to your local representatives. Worth forwarding if you know someone affected by this issue.