British Columbia medical discrimination tribunal ruling

The British Columbia Human Rights Tribunal ordered family physician Dr. Henry Ajaero to pay $28,100 in compensation following a 2021 incident in Delta. The ruling found that Dr. Ajaero discriminated against a 14-year-old transgender patient by refusing to administer a prescribed puberty blocker, Lupron, citing his religious beliefs and cultural background.

Tribunal vice-chair Devyn Cousineau stated, “I am not persuaded that this was justified by (Ajaero's) religious beliefs or lack of medical expertise,” concluding the refusal violated the B.C. Human Rights Code. The compensation includes $20,000 for “injury to dignity, feelings and self-respect” and $8,100 for expert fees.

The decision has sparked debate regarding medical conscience. The Justice Centre for Constitutional Freedoms argued that physicians should not be compelled to participate in treatments that violate their religious beliefs, especially when alternative care is available. Critics suggest the ruling may set a precedent requiring B.C. healthcare providers to offer transgender-related care for minors or face legal action.