If 97% is Good Enough for Cardiac Patients, Why Isn’t It for Transgender Youth?

Why do we accept a 97% success rate as a gold standard for cardiac care yet question it for transgender youth who receive gender-affirming care? In this episode, Dr. Panszi explores a pivotal new study from JAMA Pediatrics that examines satisfaction, regret, and continuation of care rates among transgender youth who received their gender-affirming care at the start of puberty.At 97%, the continuation rate mirrors the outcome for cardiac patients who experience improved quality of life after surgery. Yet, while cardiac patients face a 3% mortality rate, those receiving gender-affirming care simply discontinue care. The distinction raises essential questions about how we view and measure success in healthcare, especially when the patient population is young and transgender.Listen in to understand the facts behind these numbers, the factors contributing to quality of life improvements, and how this evidence can empower healthcare providers to better support and counsel their patients.Citations:Olson KR, Raber GF, Gallagher NM. Levels of Satisfaction and Regret With Gender-Affirming Medical Care in Adolescence. JAMA Pediatr. 2024 Oct 21. doi: 10.1001/jamapediatrics.2024.4527. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 39432272.Shroyer AL, Coombs LP, Peterson ED, et al. The Society of Thoracic Surgeons: 30-day operative mortality and morbidity risk models. Ann Thorac Surg. 2003 Jun;75(6):1856-64; discussion 1864-5. doi: 10.1016/s0003-4975(03)00179-6. PMID: 12822628.Enjoyed this episode? Share it on social media or send the link to a colleague or a friend who’s curious about learning more about gender. For more insights, visit engenderlove.com and join our mailing list. Don’t forget to rate or review the podcast—your support helps more people discover and learn with us.Special thanks to Indy M W for the music. Like and follow him on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you get your music.