I want to put in a good word for the VA regarding gender identity issues.
In addition to being at the forefront of medical records computerization, the organization has - at many of its facilities but not all - established a very enlightened policy for treating patients who present as transsexual.
I recently sought help for depression, and in the process I had conversations with a mental health counselor. When she learned that I was self-medicating, she immediately contacted the staff endocrinologist and set up an appointment for me.
He did an initial examination and told me he would find a doctor either inside or outside of the VA system who was experienced in treating individuals in my situation and could prescribe the right medication.
Fortunately, the endocrinologist to whom I was referred is at a VA Medical Clinic near the town to which I just moved. After a brief questioning period, he wrote the prescriptions I needed (the same regimen I was using myself) and got me onto the patient list of one of the doctors who has experience working with transsexuals.
The prevailing attitude, at least in this area, is "Thank you for your service. What can we do to help you?"
