Response Video Regarding Provision of so called “Gender Affirming Care”
The TCCB has been made aware of an undercover video showing a social worker employed by Dell Children’s Medical Group, a part of Ascension Seton, allegedly discussing the provision of so-called “gender affirming” care. Catholic hospitals do not discriminate against anyone and provide authentic healthcare to anyone who walks through their doors. We believe in the compassionate treatment of children and adults experiencing gender dysphoria; however, this can never include the provision of drugs or procedures that attack a person’s God-given bodily integrity. The Catechism of the Catholic Church states, “Except when performed for strictly therapeutic medical reasons, directly intended amputations, mutilations, and sterilizations performed on innocent persons are against the moral law.” (CCC 2297) In light of this teaching and the USCCB Doctrine committee statement1, an employee providing referrals for so called “gender affirming care” could be in violation of Ethical and Religious Directive 9.
We also support public policy that prohibits medical providers from performing surgeries or prescribing hormone therapy for children seeking treatment for gender dysphoria, including SB 14, which will be debated on the floor of the House today. This bill prohibits the use of state funds for gender transitioning, reassignment or treatments for children and prohibits physicians from performing these procedures or treatments for children.
Dell Children’s has released a statement confirming that the “organization prohibits surgery and prescribing hormone therapy for the treatment of gender dysphoria for children” and they will be conducting a “thorough review” of the situation. The Diocese of Austin is also aware of the situation and has been in contact with its leadership who have assured the diocese that they are committed to conducting their practices in accord with Catholic teaching. We await the results of their investigation and are confident that DCMC will resolve any inconsistencies with their Catholic identity.