Loyola University Chicago, a Jesuit institution, has launched a Family Medicine course dedicated to teaching “transgender” medicine, focusing on evidence-based treatment of LGBTQ+ patients, including transgender children and adolescents.
The course content includes hormone treatment initiation and maintenance for transgender patients, as well as gender confirmation surgery.
This offering has sparked controversy. Dr. Michelle Cretella, Catholic Medical Association pediatrician and American College of Pediatricians Sexuality Council co-chair, argued that “sexual orientation” and “gender identity” are political constructs. She said, “Loyola is sacrificing bodies and souls on the altar of political correctness.”
Opposition extends to higher Catholic authorities. Pope Francis labeled gender ideology as a “dangerous ideological colonization” that blurs gender differences. Likewise, Archbishop Paul S. Coakley urged those experiencing gender dysphoria to “accept the gift of your biological sex.”
