In collaboration with First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) and Trans Care BC, a program improvement project is currently underway to enhance clients’ access to gender-affirming products covered through FNHA benefits.
Findings from the 2021 2SLGBTQI+ Action Plan Survey showed that 57% of transgender, gender diverse, non-binary/agender, Two-Spirit or intersex people did not have access to or know if they had access to gender-affirming health services and related products. Our goal is to enhance pharmacy professionals’ ability and confidence to facilitate eligible clients’ access to gender-affirming products.
This project is funded by Trans Care BC, part of Provincial Health Services Authority and is led by Yuki Meng, Clinical Pharmacist and Lecturer.
“Through this project, we’ve connected with pharmacy teams, prescribers, and other healthcare professionals across the province. It’s been inspiring to see how many are eager to support access to essential gender-affirming products and help break down barriers. At the same time, some pharmacy professionals have shared that they’ve never received these kinds of requests, or aren’t sure where to start. Even with a prescription or written recommendation, there’s often uncertainty about whether clients can actually get what they need. There’s a clear need and a strong desire for more guidance and education in this space. We’re working to create something that can help clients, pharmacy professionals, and prescribers know where to go and how to make access possible.”
—Yuki Meng, Clinical Pharmacist and Lecturer
The project is scheduled for completion in 2025.