Primary Care for Transgender and Gender-Diverse Patients: Preventive Care and Perioperative Health Optimization

Primary care providers are uniquely positioned to provide comprehensive care to transgender and gender-diverse patients. Building a longitudinal relationship through which health and safety can be optimized creates a meaningful opportunity to address the disproportionate burden of health risks carried by this population. The physical environment must communicate inclusion and safety. Screenings should be offered for psychosocial health factors including behavioral health conditions, substance use, and disordered eating. Personal safety assessments should occur for intimate partner violence and food and housing insecurity. Sexual health concerns should be addressed thoroughly yet sensitively. Cancer and other health screening guidelines must be adapted based on gender-affirming treatments. The primary care provider can be a strong voice of advocacy within the health care and legislative spaces. With these considerations, the primary care provider can create a safe, affirming space wherein strong and trusting relationships can be built to allow patients to thrive.