Evaluations to determine one's readiness to initiate hormone therapy are often requested by endocrinologists or institutions who provide gender-affirming hormone therapy for transgender adults. Unfortunately, many mental health providers report unfamiliarity in working with gender-nonconforming individuals and with the needs of this population, and do not feel equipped to conduct these evaluations.
Objectives
The purpose of this paper is to introduce an instrument that can guide providers to conduct a hormone readiness evaluation that is consistent with the current best practices model of care put forth by the World Professional Association for Transgender Health Standards of Care.
Methods
Development of the Assessment of Readiness and Consent for Hormone Therapy (ARCH) was informed by published literature and consultation with subject matter experts. The tool has been revised through an iterative approach based on provider experience and client feedback.
Results
The ARCH has been used as part of a national training initiative in transgender healthcare and favorable feedback has been received. Providers have reported that using the ARCH has increased their confidence in their ability to provide sensitive care that is consistent with best practice recommendations.
Conclusions
Use of the ARCH has the potential to enhance care for a population that often encounters poor access to culturally competent providers and treatments. The focused nature of the interview helps providers support and advocate for their clients by providing and gathering information necessary to make meaningful recommendations that will help hormone treatment candidates enhance their gender related quality of life.
Key words
gender dysphoria
hormone therapy
readiness evaluation
transgender
gender incongruence
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Funding: This research did not receive any specific grant from funding agencies in the public, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors.
Disclosure: The authors report no proprietary or commercial interest in any product mentioned or concept discussed in this article.
