To Refer or Not to Refer: General Pediatricians' Perspectives on Their Role in Caring for Transgender Youth

Transgend Health. 2017 Nov 1;2(1):202-206. doi: 10.1089/trgh.2017.0019. eCollection 2017.

Abstract

Little is known about general pediatricians' experience and knowledge regarding the care of transgender youth. We surveyed N=50 general pediatricians practicing in an integrated Midwest health system. Few respondents had participated in medical management care for transgender patients, but one-third were willing to do so if training opportunities were made available. Notably, <60% of respondents were comfortable providing routine care for transgender youth. At a minimum, pediatricians need the training to feel capable of providing routine care for transgender pediatric patients. In addition, opportunities for training should be offered to those who are willing to learn about medical management of transgender youth.

Keywords: GnRH analogues; hormone therapy; pediatrics; transgender youth.