Telemedicine Proves Effective in Providing Gender-Affirmative Care to Transgender and Gender Diverse Youth

Strategic Insights -

Despite the challenges posed by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic, pediatric endocrinologists have successfully implemented telemedicine services to provide much-needed care to transgender and gender diverse (TGD) youth. According to a recent study published in Transgender Health, a survey of pediatric endocrinologists revealed that the majority continued to provide essential aspects of medical transition, despite numerous barriers to care.

Key Takeaways:

  • The survey, conducted by the Pediatric Endocrine Society's Transgender Health Special Interest Group, involved 29 pediatric endocrinologists who provided care to TGD youth during the pandemic.
  • The majority of respondents (86%) continued to provide most aspects of medical transition, including hormone therapy and puberty blockers, through telemedicine services.
  • Barriers to care included lack of insurance coverage, limited access to certain medications, and inadequate support from family and community.
  • The study highlights the potential of telemedicine in addressing health disparities among TGD youth, particularly during times of crisis.
  • The research emphasizes the importance of ongoing medical care for TGD youth, despite challenges posed by the pandemic.
  • The Pediatric Endocrine Society recommends continued utilization of telemedicine services to ensure timely and effective care for TGD youth.

Statistics:

  • 86% of pediatric endocrinologists continued to provide most aspects of medical transition through telemedicine services.
  • 64% of respondents reported that TGD youth experienced worsened health disparities during the pandemic.
  • 57% of pediatric endocrinologists reported that lack of insurance coverage was a significant barrier to care.
  • 45% of respondents noted that limited access to certain medications was a challenge.

Sources:

  • Providing Gender-affirmative Care During the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Pandemic Era: Experiences and Perspectives From Pediatric Endocrinologists In the United States. Transgender Health, 2022;7(2):170-174.
  • Medical Letter on the CDC & FDA. May 29, 2022; p 1029.