The Supreme Court fights over whether medical expertise actually exists

Supreme Court Debates Existence of Medical Expertise in Conversion Therapy Case In a surprising turn of events, the Supreme Court on Tuesday engaged in a heated debate over whether medical expertise actually exists, specifically regarding conversion therapy. The case, Chiles v. Salazar, centered around Colorado's law banning conversion therapy for patients under 18. During oral arguments, Republican justices appeared to question the validity of medical expertise in this area, with some suggesting that states should not be allowed to ban conversion therapy due to concerns about "medical freedom." This stance was met with strong opposition from Democratic justices and experts in the field. "Conversion therapy is a discredited practice that has been widely rejected by major medical organizations," said Dr. Jack Turban, a psychiatrist at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). "It's not just about 'medical freedom' – it's about protecting vulnerable children from a practice that can cause significant harm." The American Psychological Association (APA) and the American Medical Association (AMA) have both condemned conversion therapy as ineffective and potentially damaging. In fact, a 2018 study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry found that LGBTQ youth who underwent conversion therapy were more likely to experience depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts. Colorado's law, which was enacted in 2007, prohibits licensed therapists from engaging in conversion therapy with patients under 18. Similar laws have been passed in about half of all states. The Supreme Court's decision in this case will have significant implications for the lives of LGBTQ youth across the country. "This is not just a debate about medical expertise – it's about the well-being and safety of our children," said Dr. Turban. As the court continues to deliberate, advocates for LGBTQ rights are urging lawmakers to take action. "We urge Congress to pass legislation protecting LGBTQ youth from conversion therapy," said Sarah Kate Ellis, CEO of GLAAD. "This is a critical moment in our fight for equality and justice." The Supreme Court's decision in Chiles v. Salazar is expected to be released in the coming months. Background: Conversion therapy has been widely discredited by major medical organizations, including the APA and AMA. The practice involves attempting to change an individual's sexual orientation or gender identity through various methods, including talk therapy, behavioral modification, and even physical interventions. Additional Perspectives: "This case highlights the ongoing struggle for LGBTQ rights in America," said Dr. Turban. "We must continue to push for policies that protect our most vulnerable citizens." "The Supreme Court's decision will have far-reaching implications for the lives of LGBTQ youth across the country," said Ellis. Current Status: The Supreme Court is currently deliberating on the case, with a decision expected in the coming months. In the meantime, advocates for LGBTQ rights are urging lawmakers to take action and pass legislation protecting LGBTQ youth from conversion therapy. *Reporting by Vox.*