A Blueprint for Planning and Implementing a Transgender Health Program

Abstract

Transgender and gender-diverse people face multiple barriers to accessing appropriate health care, including denial of service, harassment, and lack of clinician knowledge. This article presents a blueprint for planning and implementing a transgender health program within a primary care practice in order to enhance the capacity of the health care system to meet the medical and mental health needs of this underserved population. The steps described, with emphasis on elements specific to transgender care, include conducting a community needs assessment, gaining commitment from leadership and staff, choosing a service model and treatment protocols, defining staff roles, and creating a welcoming environment.