Untested treatments could put trans people at risk

[Butterfly]

Untested treatments could put trans people at risk
Xtra
by Doerthe Keilholz
29 July, 2010


http://www.xtra.ca/public/Vancouver/Untested_treatments_could_put_trans_people_at_risk-8970.aspx


Getting access to competent hormone treatment can be a challenge, says Marria Townsend, a physician at Three Bridges.

Three Bridges employs three physicians trained in trans health issues. But the clinic's narrow catchment area means Townsend can't accept patients who live outside the West End or downtown.

"There are a lot of people looking for treatment, and they are unable to find it," says Townsend.

Robena Sirett, manager of Vancouver Coastal Health's Transgender Health Project, thinks the lack of trained physicians can present a health risk for trans people. The Health Project offers training workshops and co-created clinical guidelines for prescribing and monitoring hormones. But the guidelines are not mandatory for BC health services.