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Title X gag rule banned nationwide, AMA declares ‘victory’
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A federal district judge ruled that the Trump administration’s gag rule regarding physician- patient family planning discussions can be lifted nationwide, according to a court order filed Monday.
“Given that the harm to Plaintiffs would occur in every state, and considering the balance of equities and the fact that Plaintiffs have demonstrated significant likelihood on the merits of their claims that the Final Rule is contrary to law, a nationwide injunction is appropriate,” United States District Judge Michael J. McShane, wrote in his opinion.
Barbara McAneny, MD, AMA president, applauded the judge’s decision.
“Judge McShane’s ruling is a victory for patients, physicians and the open conversations that are essential to improving health outcomes,” she said in a statement.
The American Academy of Family Physicians, American College of Obstetrics and Gynecologists and ACP have all previously indicated they did not support the Trump administration’s gag rule.
Last week, McShane banned the same gag rule for AMA, the Oregon Medical Association and Planned Parenthood Federation of America, the plaintiffs in the original lawsuit.
HHS has not publicly commented on either of McShane’s rulings. – by Janel Miller
Disclosures: McShane’s disclosures could be determined prior to publication. AMA president.