Medical Office Training

Many transgender people suffer from dysphoria about their bodies and can feel particularly vulnerable in a medical setting. Some will even avoid seeking regular medical care because of how they have been treated in the past.

Our training breaks down gender issues and offers guidance on the use of sensitive language, how to handle insurance and other paperwork complications, and to create an environment that will allow any gender non-conforming or transgender patient to feel welcome.

Most medical schools still only touch on the basics of gender identity and the trans population these days. And there are many medical offices with doctors and staff who have never been taught about trans identities. We begin by teaching about gender diversity, inclusion, and why supporting transgender patients benefits is so crucial. Without a solid understanding of what a transgender patient faces, many medical offices fall short in being truly supportive.

With our training, everyone in your office will learn why it’s important to support gender non-conforming and trans patients, the dangers of not being supportive, and will be more likely to embrace non-discriminatory policies.

Medical office front desk staff learning about transgender inclusive policies

This training series covers:

Gender Identity and other Transgender Terminology

  • Gender Identity vs Sexual Orientation
  • Gender Presentation, Gender Roles
  • Transgender Umbrella
  • Non-Binary Identities

 

Myths vs Facts: Transgender Stats and Stereotypes

  • Mental Disorder that can be Fixed through Counseling, WPATH Recommendations
  • Too Young to Know
  • Not a Real Man or Woman without Surgery
  • Non-Discrimination Laws are Special Treatment
  • Trans People Aren’t Happy After Transitioning

 

Understanding Privilege, Danger, and the Coming Out Process

  • Pronouns and Microaggressions
  • Discriminatory Terms/Practices
  • Put Yourself in a Trans Person’s Shoes
  • How to React to a Coming Out Moment

 

Gender Messages All Around Us

  • Messages from Friends and Family
  • Messages from Society
  • Messages from Media
  • Imagine Being Transgender

 

Are You a Boy or a Girl?

  • Ages and Stages of Gender Identity Awareness
  • Stories of Trans Youth
  • The Importance of Affirming Youth, Statistics You Should Know

 

Welcoming Transgender Patients

  • Preferred Names and Pronouns
  • Intake Forms, Insurance Forms, Prescriptions
  • Medical Records and Confidentiality
  • Gender-Neutral Language
  • Bathrooms & Paper Gowns
  • Touchy Questions and Exams

 

Problems Accessing Medical Care

  • Discrimination Statistics
  • Physical Discomfort with Exams
  • Fear of Judgement
  • Insurance Barriers

 

It’s Not Always About Transition

  • Trans People DO Need Typical Medical Care
  • Do NOT Veer Non-Trans Needs towards Trans Conversations
  • Do NOT Rely on Your Patients to Educate You

 

Navigating Insurance and the Law

  • Mismatched Identity and ID Cards
  • Coding Tricks of the Trade
  • Letters for Coverage, Surgeries, Name & Gender Marker Changes

 

Messages from Parents of Trans Children

  • Explain Gender Non-Conforming Behavior Early
  • Believe Us When We Come To You for Help…We Are Afraid
  • Ask About Body-Part Terminology that Makes Kids Comfortable
  • Understand Blockers & Hormones Even if You Aren’t the Prescriber