We recognize that transgender and gender diverse (TGD) communities are significantly affected by health care disparities and may face difficulty accessing and receiving health care. We continue to improve efforts to advocate for health equity for all individuals who experience marginalization. Above all else, we believe:

• You are valuable and are worthy
• Your identities matter
• You are an expert on your body and experiences and know what is best for you

UHS affirms gender identity as an individual’s own conception of themselves and does not define gender by the sex a patient/client was assigned at birth. We accept students wherever they are in their journey and work to support them in starting or accessing gender affirming health care

If we can support you, call UHS at 608-265-5600 to speak with a provider or visit uhs.wisc.edu/medical/trans-health/ to learn more about the Trans Health Program.

UHS began offering GAHT for students in 2013, with the requirement that students first meet with a mental health provider to complete an assessment to receive a letter in support of this care. The requirement to meet with a mental health provider increases stigma for a community that has disproportionate healthcare disparities, and this requirement sends the message that TGD people do not understand themselves, their needs, or their own experiences. Informed consent removes the requirement of meeting with a mental health provider prior to being able to access medical care, thereby making the process of beginning GAHT consistent with the process for starting other medications.

UHS providers understand that oppression and marginalization have significant links to healthcare disparities, and in making this change, UHS moves toward eliminating disparities in the delivery of our care.

UHS’s collaboration with Gender and Sexuality Campus Center is an example of how services can change and adapt to better meet the needs of individuals who are members of historically underrepresented communities. By listening to these communities, following their lead, honoring strategies used within these communities, collaborating, working to understand the impact of oppression on healthcare disparities, and actively working to eliminate bias in our delivery of healthcare, we hope to create healthcare homes for students who may not have previously felt welcomed or cared for.

Transition can be stressful and having support will be important. Mental Health Services  offers individual counseling, meetings to support students considering gender affirming surgeries, and weekly support and empowerment groups. Providers who have advanced training and experience working with TGD students are available.

Please see our Trans Health page to learn more.