Transgender Healthcare Rights in Limbo: University of Maryland Medical System Corporation’s Request to Delay Lawsuit Puts Future of Gender-Affirming Care in Question

The University of Maryland Medical System Corp. has requested a federal appeals court to delay a transgender discrimination lawsuit until a decision is made by the US Supreme Court in a case regarding state bans on gender-affirming care for transgender youths. This request comes after the Supreme Court agreed to review a decision by the US Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit, which found that Tennessee’s ban on gender-affirming care for minors is unconstitutional. The medical provider informed the Fourth Circuit of this development on the same day.

The lawsuit in question involves equal protection claims by a transgender man who was denied a hysterectomy by the University of Maryland Medical System Corp. This case is similar to the one being reviewed by the Supreme Court, as both cases deal with issues of discrimination against transgender individuals seeking gender-affirming care. By putting the lawsuit on hold until the Supreme Court makes a decision on the Tennessee case, the University of Maryland Medical System Corp. is hoping for clarity on the legal issues surrounding transgender rights and healthcare.

This decision could have significant implications for transgender individuals seeking medical treatment and could impact how states regulate gender-affirming care for minors in the future. It is a crucial moment in the ongoing fight for transgender rights and equality in