AMA adopts new policy endorsing unrestricted pediatric gender-affirming care

During its Chicago gathering, the American Medical Association’s House of Delegates adopted a combined resolution titled "Gender Affirming Healthcare and Research," which endorses pediatric medical transition and seeks restored funding for related studies. The measure unites prior calls for clinical-trial support and for safeguarding access to gender-affirming surgeries, despite earlier AMA statements aligning with the American Society of Plastic Surgeons that surgeries should generally wait until adulthood.

The adopted text omits any age threshold, framing treatment decisions around patient-centered shared decision-making. Reference Committee testimony highlighted the need for more longitudinal research while opposing treatment restrictions. Opponents cite systematic reviews from the U.K., Sweden and Finland that question the necessity and safety of such interventions, noting documented physiological and psychological risks. The AMA also approved a separate resolution to expand advocacy against state and federal restrictions on youth gender care.