Transgender Health Care at PSU
PSU acknowledges that while transgender people have the same basic health care needs as cisgender people, they also have health care needs specifically related to their transition that require on-going and competent care. We are committed to supporting transgender individuals by providing high quality health care for the services we do offer and making appropriate referrals to competent providers for services that are beyond the university Health Services scope of practice.
Am I required to list my legal name/gender marker on Health Services Forms?
Yes, you are required to use your legal name on forms for Health Services since they are part of your health record. We do not ask for gender markers on forms since that information is already part of your health record based on the information we receive from the University student information system.
How do I get my preferred name/gender marker noted in Health Services records system?
If you would like to inform us of a name or gender marker that you use, but has not been changed legally or within the student information system, you can come to Health Services and speak with our staff to have this information noted in your electronic health record.
Can I list/change preferred pronouns in the Health Services record system?
Yes, please let us know if you would like to be identified differently than information we receive from the University student information system. Please visit Health Services and speak with one of the staff to have this information noted in your electronic health record.
Health Services providers can work with your primary care provider (PCP) to assist with continuity of care. If you do not have a PCP, Health Services can assist you with learning about competent providers in the area.
Can I get a standard exam of whatever type I need regardless of my gender identity or expression at Health Services (pap smear, breast exam, hernia test, prostate exam, etc.)?
Yes, you can receive standard exams provided at Health Services that you need, regardless of your gender identity or expression.
Can Health Service provide information about surgeons providing gender confirmation surgery (GCS)?
Yes, Health Services can assist you with learning more about professionals providing GCS.
Can I get a written referral to an endocrinologist for HRT or to a surgeon for GCS?
Please contact your insurance carrier to see whether or not a written referral is needed. Referrals must be obtained by your primary care provider.
Can I get a prescription written for hormones/anti-androgens?
Hormones and anti-androgens should be prescribed by a specialist. We do not have a specialist on staff at Health Services, but can assist you in finding one.
Will hormone prescriptions be covered by the health fee?
Hormone prescriptions are not covered by the health fee. Please check with your insurance carrier to see if they cover hormone prescriptions.
Will Health Services staff order blood tests related to hormone replacement therapy (HRT)?
Health Services providers do not order blood tests related to HRT, but our local hospital, Speare Memorial Hospital, will accept orders from an outside provider.
Will the lab do blood tests ordered by an outside provider?
Our local hospital performs labs ordered by outside providers.
Will HRT-related blood tests be covered by the health fee?
The health fee does not cover HRT-related blood tests. Please check with your insurance carrier to see if they will cover these tests.
Will Health Services staff help me administer HRT-related treatments (such as injections)?
Yes. Health Services providers can assist with the administration of prescribed HRT-related treatments.
Questions or Concerns?
If you have any questions or concerns regarding Health Services policies for transgender clients/patients or have any concerns about treatment or care, please let us know:
- Beth Smarse, BSN RN, Supervisor of PSU Health Services, 603-536-3700
