Hello all! I''m Max and this is my first post here. I decided to post because I haven't really gotten a straight answer. I am 26 and I've been seeing a therapist for about 2 months. I'm wanting to start transitioning but I feel as if I'm at a stand still. My therapist informed me that she doesn't have anything to do with the medical side, just the emotional part (which is understandable). She said for me to find a doctor now.

I live in the heart of South Carolina. I've checked several resources and sites that had anything to do with transgender and/or support and/or transition help... you get the picture. I need to know if I should spend my time finding a general practice/family doctor that does HRT, or should I go straight to an Endo? I have insurance through my job. I'm just not trying to bounce all around from doctor to endo if I don't have to, although it would help me meet my deductible 

If anyone has had any experience with doctors/endos around Columbia, Charleston, Augusta, or even Charlotte, NC, I would really love some input and/or guidance with this. I just feel stuck. Thanks in advance for any responses!

-Max

Hi Max, Welcome to Susan's. Generally you either get a letter from a therapist or go informed consent to start T. Then blood tests and off you go. The guys will be able to help you more in Regards to it. I look forward to seeing you around the forums. Good luck and Hugs
Mariah

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I also live in the Southeast and know how hard it is to find doctors that will prescribe T. The nurse practitioner that I started seeing recommended a trans friendly clinic in Atlanta. I made an appointment there, and they did the blood work and gave me some referrals to therapists to get a letter. That took a few appointments, then I went back to the clinic for the prescription for T. No endo was involved.

Dealing with either general practice clinics or endos can be tricky because I had one endo that said she'd prescribe T but after I paid for the labs, she backed out. I'm not familiar with any doctors or clinics in your area. However, based on the law passed in NC, it may be harder to find a doctor there that isn't afraid of the backlash for treating transgender patients.

I used informed consent at planned parenthood in Charleston SC.  Everyone was super nice and professional.  I've only been once but it was a good experience.

They asked a lot of health questions. Also questions about my gender identity and sexual orientation.  Asked if I had support, and felt safe at home and at work. They wanted to do a physical and pap smear but since I had one done not to long ago I just had my records faxed over there.  Then they drew blood and (kinda) showed me how to inject.  Wasn't a very in depth tutorial.  Blood work came back in 6 days for me (she said it doesn't usually take that long)and she called in my prescription. 

Hope this helps.

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