The Department of Justice has reached a settlement with the Cleveland Clinic, effectively ending two decades of its “gender-affirming care” practices. This move comes after the clinic faced accusations of misrepresenting its gender reassignment treatments in order to gain insurance coverage, resulting in an agreement to pay a fine of $308,000.
The hospital has described these allegations as misleading and wrong, asserting it does not conduct gender reassignment surgeries on individuals under 18.
The settlement also includes a commitment from the clinic to provide $2 million in restorative care for those looking to transition.
Deputy Attorney General Stanley Woodward emphasized the DOJ’s dedication to protecting children, stating that this resolution with the Cleveland Clinic reinforces that commitment and sends a clear message that federal laws will be enforced when children are at risk.
This case is similar to a previous settlement with Texas Children’s Hospital, which agreed to halt sex-denial treatment for minors and pay a fine of $10 million.
According to the Justice Department, these measures aim to end dangerous practices disguised as medical treatment while also making significant investments to repair the harm caused to affected individuals.
Interestingly, the Cleveland Clinic was labeled one of the “wokest hospitals” in America by Consumers Research in 2025, which the clinic disputed as inaccurate.
Brett Shumate, an assistant attorney general in the Civil Division, expressed gratitude that institutions like the Cleveland Clinic and Texas Children’s Hospital are taking steps to address these issues. He added that the clinic’s financial commitment towards care for those in transition is a positive development, but acknowledged that their work continues, focusing on holding accountable those who exploit vulnerable children.
