Associated Family Physicians provides compassionate care for individuals undergoing gender confirmation, offering support through medical management and appropriate referrals for confirmation surgeries. Here’s a summary of how family medicine manages gender confirmation:
Initial Assessment and Counseling
We begin with a thorough patient history and discussions about gender identity. Providing counseling and support to help patients explore their gender identity and understand the gender confirmation process.
Individualized Care Plans
Developing personalized care plans tailored to each patient’s needs, goals, and circumstances. This may include coordinating with specialists such as endocrinologists, mental health professionals, and surgeons.
Hormone Therapy
Prescribing and managing hormone therapy to align the patient’s physical characteristics with their gender identity. This includes monitoring hormone levels, managing side effects, and adjusting dosages as necessary.
Surgical Referrals and Support
Referring patients to experienced surgeons for gender-affirming surgeries when desired.
Mental Health Support
Offering ongoing mental health support through referrals to therapists who specialize in gender identity issues. Ensuring patients have access to counseling to address any psychological challenges and promote overall well-being.
Preventive and Routine Healthcare
Providing routine healthcare tailored to the unique needs of transgender individuals, including regular screenings, vaccinations, and management of chronic conditions. Ensuring a holistic approach to health that considers both physical and mental aspects.
Patient Education
Educating patients about the gender confirmation process, including potential risks, benefits, and long-term considerations of hormone therapy and surgery. Ensuring patients are well-informed to make decisions about their care.
Continuous Follow-Up and Care
Offering regular follow-up appointments to monitor the patient’s progress, address any health concerns, and provide ongoing support throughout their transition and beyond.
Through personalized care, supportive counseling, and comprehensive health services, AFP aims to facilitate a smooth and affirming gender confirmation process, promoting the overall well-being of transgender individuals.
