Cass Review

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Cass Review

The Cass Review is an independent review of gender identity services for children and young people in the United Kingdom. It was commissioned by NHS England in 2020 and is led by Dr. Hilary Cass, a former president of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health.

Background

The review was initiated in response to concerns about the significant increase in the number of children and young people seeking gender identity services and the capacity of the existing services to meet this demand. The review aims to ensure that individuals receive the appropriate care and support they need.

Objectives

The primary objectives of the Cass Review are to:

• Assess the clinical approach and service delivery model of the Gender Identity Development Service (GIDS) at the Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust.
• Evaluate the evidence base for the use of puberty blockers and cross-sex hormones in the treatment of gender dysphoria in children and young people.
• Provide recommendations for the future development of gender identity services for children and young people in the UK.

Methodology

The review involves a comprehensive analysis of existing clinical practices, consultations with stakeholders, including patients, families, and healthcare professionals, and a review of the current scientific literature on gender dysphoria and its treatment.

Interim Findings

In its interim report, the Cass Review highlighted several key issues, including:

• The need for a more holistic and multi-disciplinary approach to the care of children and young people with gender dysphoria.
• Concerns about the long-term effects and safety of puberty blockers and cross-sex hormones.
• The importance of providing adequate mental health support alongside gender identity services.

Impact

The findings and recommendations of the Cass Review are expected to have significant implications for the future of gender identity services in the UK. They aim to improve the quality of care and ensure that children and young people receive evidence-based and patient-centered support.

See also

• Gender dysphoria
• Transgender health care
• NHS England
• Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust
• Puberty blockers
• Cross-sex hormones