Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital does not provide gender-affirming surgeries. Our Gender Health Clinic provides a multidisciplinary three-step process that includes education, resources and affirming medical support.
We respect all parties with medical decision-making authority and do not provide treatment without their consent.
Appointment expectations and beyond
Our team will use your chosen name and pronouns, as well as update your medical chart to reflect the most current information. Below we answer common questions about what to expect at an appointment and more.
What happens when the clinic receives my referral?
The referral goes to our care coordinator, who will make up to three attempts to reach your caregiver(s). Upon making contact, our care coordinator will complete an initial screening with caregivers over the phone to gather background information. This information is intended to:
- Provide the clinic team with a better understanding of you and your family
- Learn about expectations and hopes for the first clinic appointment
- Provide information about clinic services
- Answer any questions you or your caregivers may have
At the end of this screening, the care coordinator will schedule an initial medical visit for you and your caregiver with our clinic team. For those 13 and up, the clinic coordinator will schedule an optional virtual visit with you and our social worker.
What happens at my first social work appointment?
Our social worker will meet with you to address any questions or concerns you may have about your first clinic appointment and the gender-affirming care our clinic can provide. Our social worker will meet with you virtually and then may also meet with you at your first medical appointment. Our social worker is meant to help you and your family navigate your needs and wants for gender-affirming care.
What happens at my first medical appointment?
We have an entire team dedicated to your gender health journey, and we tailor care according to the needs of each patient. Your doctor will review your medical chart and your expectations for our clinic prior to meeting with you. Together, you will create a plan for your medical care. You may also meet with other team members, including our psychologist, nurse and dietitian.
What happens after my first medical appointment?
Because every patient and family have different needs and desires when they come into our clinic, no one’s journey is the same. We will base your next steps on the plan you and your medical team created.
What happens when I become an adult?
Since you can be part of our clinic until you are 18 or finish high school, we may have several years to work together. When you get close to this transition, our team can help you find a gender-affirming adult provider. We will ensure you have the appropriate resources to continue your care into adulthood. We can also help coordinate surgery referrals, insurance letters and more.
Contact us
To learn more about the Mary Bridge Children’s Gender Health Clinic, call 253-792-6630.