BC doctor fined $28,000 for refusing puberty blocker

The British Columbia Human Rights Tribunal has ordered Dr. Henry Ajaero, a family physician in Delta, to pay $28,100 following his refusal to administer the puberty blocker Lupron to a 14-year-old patient.

Dr. Ajaero declined to provide the injection in March 2021, citing religious beliefs and concerns regarding his scope of practice. The tribunal ruled that the doctor’s conduct was discriminatory, awarding $20,000 for “injury to dignity, feelings and self-respect” and $8,100 in expert fees. In its decision, the tribunal rejected the physician's religious objections, characterizing Lupron as a medication that prevents puberty rather than one used for gender reassignment.

The ruling has drawn criticism from civil liberties groups. The Justice Centre for Constitutional Freedoms argued that physicians should not be compelled to participate in medical treatments that violate their religious beliefs, particularly when alternative care options are available. Critics of the decision suggest the ruling sets a precedent requiring healthcare providers in British Columbia to provide transgender-related care for minors or face legal consequences.