Chloe Cole, a 20-year-old California resident and prominent detransitioner, is suing Kaiser Foundation Hospitals for medical malpractice related to gender transition procedures she underwent as a minor. Filed in 2022 when she was 18, the case represents one of the most high-profile medical malpractice lawsuits involving gender-affirming care for minors. The trial is scheduled for April 5, 2027.
Cole's medical journey began at age 9 when she began experiencing gender dysphoria. At age 12, she was prescribed puberty blockers by Kaiser healthcare providers. Shortly after turning 13, she began testosterone treatment, and within months, at age 13, she underwent a double mastectomy—a procedure she now describes as "life-altering medical mutilation."
Cole's lawyers allege that Kaiser physicians failed to provide adequate informed consent, did not properly explore underlying mental health issues, and rushed her into irreversible procedures. She subsequently suffered severe psychological distress and detransitioned several years later, recognizing that her discomfort stemmed from mental health challenges unrelated to gender identity.
The lawsuit is being handled by The Dhillon Law Group and LiMandri & Jonna LLP in conjunction with the Center for American Liberty, a nonprofit organization supporting similar cases. The complaint seeks damages for medical malpractice, alleging that Kaiser providers violated the standard of care by recommending and performing irreversible procedures on a child who could not give truly informed consent.
The case has garnered significant national attention, with Cole becoming a prominent advocate for restrictions on gender transition treatments for minors. In September 2025, Congressman Bob Onder introduced federal legislation named after her—the "Chloe Cole Act"—aiming to limit access to puberty blockers and gender surgeries for children.
The case is scheduled for trial on April 5, 2027, marking a critical juncture in an emerging area of medical malpractice law. The lawsuit comes amid growing scrutiny of gender-affirming care practices, including a February 2026 landmark ruling in New York where a detransitioner was awarded $2 million in damages.
The American Society of Plastic Surgeons recently announced opposition to breast removal surgeries for individuals under 19, citing insufficient evidence of long-term benefits and significant risks—a position that may influence Cole's case.
If successful, Cole's lawsuit could establish significant legal precedents regarding informed consent standards for medical providers treating gender dysphoric minors, potentially exposing similar institutions to liability and reshaping clinical practices nationwide.
For more information about the life and lawsuit of Ms Cole see my exclusive podcast interview Ep105 and in my book Songs About the Heartland
Editorial comments expressed in this column are the sole opinion of the writer
