A French gynecologist has been temporarily suspended for refusing to treat a transgender patient in a case that has sparked outrage across the country.
Dr. Victor Acharian, who practices in Pau, France, turned away a 26-year-old transgender woman during her appointment in August 2023, claiming he was only qualified to treat “real women.”
Doctor’s Refusal and Controversial Comments
The transgender patient, who had come in with her boyfriend, was reportedly told by Dr. Acharian that he was “not competent” to treat her but could offer guidance.
He also stated that treating transgender individuals was “not his specialty” and made comments admitting to ignorance.
Dr. Acharian allegedly said, “I don’t know how to treat them and I don’t mind being called ignorant.”
His refusal and comments prompted the patient to label him as “transphobic.”
Backlash and Legal Action
The patient’s partner left a negative review of the clinic, and Dr. Acharian responded with even more controversial remarks, saying he treated “real women” and had “no skills to treat men, even if they have shaved their beards and come to tell my secretary that they have become women.”
This exchange led to widespread condemnation, with transgender rights groups lodging formal complaints.
Legal Consequences for Dr. Acharian
In response to the incident, Dr. Acharian was summoned before the French Medical Council.
In December, the council decided to suspend him for one month, beginning on March 1, 2025. Additionally, he has been placed on probation for five months.
The patient’s lawyer, Édouard Martial, expressed satisfaction with the ruling, confirming that the doctor’s actions were deemed entirely inappropriate.
Concerns Over Healthcare Discrimination
Transgender rights organizations, including SOS Homophobie, have argued that Dr. Acharian’s actions could lead to further legal consequences, potentially even criminal charges.
Mar Cambrollé, president of the Trans Platform Federation in Spain, voiced her outrage, stating, “It is brutal to deny the right to health; it is a universal right that all citizens have.”
An Ongoing Issue for the Trans Community
While Dr. Acharian has since apologized and offered to refer the patient to a specialist, the case highlights a broader issue in France.
According to a report by Doctors of the World, it is estimated that 50% of transgender individuals in the country delay or cancel medical appointments due to fear of discrimination.
Uncertain Future for Dr. Acharian
Dr. Acharian has the right to appeal his suspension, but it remains unclear whether he intends to pursue that option.
The case has raised serious concerns about how transgender people are treated in the healthcare system, especially when it comes to sensitive issues like gynecological care.