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. 2021 Aug 16;16(8):e0255568. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0255568

Table 4. Summary of findings and recommended best practices.

Findings Recommendations for Best Practices
Systems-level improvements within existing health services
Expanding data collection options
  • Gender-affirming intake forms

  • Gender-affirming EHR systems

  • Asking all patients/clients about their gender identity as standard practice

Expanding mental health services
  • Increased clinical skill and cultural responsiveness for primary care providers working with TGD community members

  • Increased hiring and availability of gender-affirming mental health professionals

  • Patient/client consents for information-sharing between integrated health care team members

Inclusive and affirming health care environments
  • Increased visibility of TGD-affirming symbols, including visibility of flags/icons, pronoun pins, and “safe space” signage in common areas.

  • All staff attendance at mandatory, recurring training on creating a welcoming environment for TGD patients.

  • Policies and written procedures ensure a system of accountability and include not only interactions with patients, but also outline expectations for a gender-inclusive workplace culture and care teams inclusive of TGD staff

Employing TGD-identified HCPs and staff
  • Hiring, retaining, and promoting TGD-identified staff at all levels, including in leadership positions with decision-making power

Expanded TGD community outreach and engagement
Patient feedback process
  • A system is developed for patients/clients to give feedback about an experience, staff member, or the organization

  • Written policies and procedures to hold staff accountable for following gender-affirming care practices

Expanding TGD health navigators
  • All patients/clients have access to a knowledgeable health navigator whose services include patient advocacy work with insurance companies and HCPs

Resource mapping
  • Development of a centralized community resource map, which is monitored and updated regularly

  • Development of a training program and/or certification that serves to guaranty a higher standard of gender-affirming care practices