Gender-Affirming Care for Adults

Area of Science:

• Medical and Health Sciences
• Nursing Practice
• Public Health Policy

Background:

• Gender-affirming care (GAC) is person-centered healthcare supporting gender identity.
• It includes social, behavioral, medical, and surgical interventions.
• GAC extends to primary care, mental health, and social support.

Purpose of the Study:

• To translate evidence and guidelines into clinical practice for nurses and interprofessional teams.
• To address misinformation surrounding gender-affirming care.
• To outline the evolving legal landscape impacting GAC access in the US.

Main Methods:

• Review of current evidence and clinical guidelines.
• Analysis of psychosocial outcomes associated with GAC.
• Examination of the US legal and policy environment affecting GAC.

Main Results:

• GAC significantly improves gender dysphoria, depression, and suicidality.
• Positive psychosocial outcomes are linked to receiving GAC.
• Evidence supports GAC as a critical component of healthcare.

Conclusions:

• GAC is vital for improving health outcomes and well-being in transgender and gender diverse adults.
• Nurses and interprofessional teams require updated knowledge to provide effective GAC.
• Navigating the legal landscape is crucial for ensuring continued access to GAC.