Meyer signs executive order shielding patients and providers of gender-affirming care
A newly signed executive order makes information on gender-affirming care more secure.
Executive Order 11 was signed on June 10 in Rehoboth Beach. The order protects patients and providers from being forced to hand over information about gender-affirming care given in Delaware in most civil and criminal investigations and professional disciplinary actions. Medical records, data and billing information are included in the executive order.
The executive order defines gender-affirming care as "any medically necessary healthcare or treatment consistent with current clinical standards of care prescribed by a licensed healthcare provider for the treatment of a condition related to the individual's gender identity and that is legal under Delaware law."
The order forbids state agencies from supplying information on patients and providers of gender-affirming care in a civil or criminal investigation that is solely initiated on people providing, receiving, inquiring about, or responding to an inquiry regarding gender-affirming care or people traveling to Delaware to receive it. It also protects from out-of-state subpoenas.
There are exceptions, like if there is a final and non-appealable court order or if required by federal or state law. The order also does not allow any medical boards in the state to bar or discipline providers of gender-affirming care on that lone basis.
'You can never erase us': Delaware bill to ban transgender care stalls, climate remains
The order is designed to secure providers and patients from "hostile laws" in states that restrict gender-affirming care, a release from the governor's office said.
'Across the country, people are being punished for seeking or providing gender-affirming care,' said Gov. Matt Meyer in a statement on June 20. 'In Delaware, we cherish privacy, dignity and the right to make personal medical decisions. Everyone deserves the freedom to access healthcare rooted in science and compassion.'
These restrictions are not unheard of. Delaware neighbors New Jersey and Maryland have very similar protections on the books.
Shane Brennan covers Wilmington and other Delaware issues. Reach out with ideas, tips or feedback at slbrennan@delawareonline.com.
This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: DE executive order shields gender-affirming care patients, providers
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