Jump to content
  • Welcome to the TransPulse Forums!

    We offer a safe, inclusive community for transgender and gender non-conforming folks, as well as their loved ones, to find support and information.  Join today!

VA transition timeline


Recommended Posts

I had my first official mental health eval on May 19, and I’m set for an Endocrinology appointment, via phone (thanks pandemic), on June 8th.

 

What comes next after that? When do I get referred for voice training and the rest? 
 

I realize I could probably wait and ask the doctor... but that’s 4 days away and I just want to hear accounts from others who’ve gone through the process with the V.A.

Link to comment
  • Forum Moderator

Either Dr. needs to put in for the consult. then you will get a call from Physical therapy. (Speech) to get an appointment.

 

I had my Gyn, put in mine. She also put my consult for the endo, Which I had to go to Denver VA for. They may do a consult to the regional Transition team ( A team of experts that review your file and make suggestions on your course of treatment.)

 

The VA is the one place I feel the most comfortable and open at. They are totally accepting. You can even use the rest room of the sex you identify as, even if you are not presenting. I walk into the woman clinic and get asked, "How can we help you Ma'am."

I think that a lone male walking into the woman clinic, is most likely transgender.

 

Any problems with anybody while at the VA contact the LGBT coordinator, it is there job to make sure we the transgender veterans are treated with respect.

 

Kymmie

Link to comment
2 hours ago, KymmieL said:

Either Dr. needs to put in for the consult. then you will get a call from Physical therapy. (Speech) to get an appointment.

 

I had my Gyn, put in mine. She also put my consult for the endo, Which I had to go to Denver VA for. They may do a consult to the regional Transition team ( A team of experts that review your file and make suggestions on your course of treatment.)

 

The VA is the one place I feel the most comfortable and open at. They are totally accepting. You can even use the rest room of the sex you identify as, even if you are not presenting. I walk into the woman clinic and get asked, "How can we help you Ma'am."

I think that a lone male walking into the woman clinic, is most likely transgender.

 

Any problems with anybody while at the VA contact the LGBT coordinator, it is there job to make sure we the transgender veterans are treated with respect.

 

Kymmie

 

Oh crap...that's what that consult was? I got a letter stating they couldn't get me scheduled for physical therapy in a timely manner and I'd been referred for community care. But the referral expired 14 days from the date of the letter and I opened it on day 16 (I don't get out much, even to the mailbox). 

 

I assumed because it said physical therapy that it was for my spine/nerve issue for which I just postponed my MRI. 

 

Guess I'll contact the doctor tomorrow for a re-referral.

Link to comment
  • Forum Moderator

You may just contact PT. they may still be able to act on it.

 

Kymmie

Link to comment

It occurred to me that my endo appointment being via phone makes new bloodwork impossible. How recent does bloodwork have to be?

Link to comment
  • 2 weeks later...
  • Forum Moderator

Wichita, sorry it took me this long to respond.

I think it depends on the DR. but they can have you go in for blood work. The VA is still open. I got my blocker shot at the woman clinic, after picking it up via pharmacy curb side pick up. Just take a mask. They ask you some questions and give you a wrist band.

 

Kymmie

Link to comment

Yep, he wanted bloodwork. I went the following day to a much smaller and closer VA community clinic. The day after that, he called to say my levels were good to go. I had my prescriptions by Monday. I haven't begun them yet, due to a urology concern, for which new meds are on the way. I expect them by next week, along with finastride. Then the "E rollercoaster" begins.

Link to comment
  • 3 months later...

I'm still trying to get the dots connected with community care and the VA.... Waiting for the psych paperwork to get to my civilian endocrinologist..... Uggghh!?!?!?!

 

Link to comment

My experience with the VA has always been positive.

I don't really know what is available though.  They do voice things?

Guess I thought HRT was it.

Of course with the 'Rona things might be on hold.

Link to comment
7 hours ago, Shawnster said:

I'm still trying to get the dots connected with community care and the VA.... Waiting for the psych paperwork to get to my civilian endocrinologist..... Uggghh!?!?!?!

 

I was... “was” going to a civilian urologist through the Choice program. Most of the meds he prescribed were “outside of the VA formulary” and thus, required paperwork from the doctor stating that I needed that specific drug before the VA would lift a finger to provide it. 
 

This paperwork has be delivered via time travel to the year 1995 as the VA pharmacy had one barely functional, always-busy fax machine. No e-mails allowed. If I were waiting for cardiac meds...I’d have died each and every time they prescribed something or tried to refill something. I easily went weeks with no meds multiple times while the VA awaited the same damned letter to arrive via 1995 fax machine.
 

After dealing with that for over a year, and after realizing the civilian doctor probably saw me as his kids’ college fund since the VA was footing the bill, I just went back to VA urology so that whatever they prescribed wouldn’t need an act of Congress to get provided to me. 
 

Of course VA urology had its own glaring issues, but at least whatever they prescribed me came reasonably quickly.

Link to comment

Hi, all.

I'm joining those whose VA experience has been positive. My first Rx of Estradiol arrived today, so I'm on Cloud 9. I'm in the VA Sierra Nevada Health Care System [Reno], and the Fallon, Nv. local clinic. My experience so far with VA transitioning services reflects others who appreciate the service they've recieved. I guess each regional VA system has a unit or "team" specializing in transition. I'm going MtF, so they gave me to an OB/GYN for the hormone treatment. I think I'll be getting a woman primary care doc soon, and a therapist with gender dysphoria and trans experience. [Reno VA has no "Gender Therapist" per se, but this system is small compared to most other VA regions.

 

Everyone's attitude is encouraging. Very professional, very accepting, very friendly, very thoughtful of us. With CV, I'm doing it all online [telecare, supposedly private. "Russia, if you're listening...."].

 

One caveat: All your treatment from VA goes onto a single gigantic "chart" in the belly of the confuser, and all the docs and nurses have access. So my meds list now includes "Estradiol," and I suppose the transition team's notes. But I decided, "screw it. Good place to start exiting the closet."

 

Take good care of yourselves, my friends.

~~Hugs all 'round, Lee~~

Link to comment
2 hours ago, Lee H said:

Everyone's attitude is encouraging. Very professional, very accepting, very friendly, very thoughtful of us. With CV, I'm doing it all online [telecare, supposedly private. "Russia, if you're listening...."].

 

One caveat: All your treatment from VA goes onto a single gigantic "chart" in the belly of the confuser, and all the docs and nurses have access. So my meds list now includes "Estradiol," and I suppose the transition team's notes. But I decided, "screw it. Good place to start exiting the closet."

As I've said my experience with the VA has been positive.  As for the 'single gigantic "chart'", when I went in for surgery (unrelated to any trans issues) they knew about my gender issues and respected me - addressed me as "Jandi" etc.

Link to comment
  • Forum Moderator

Like I have stated before, the VA has been the most accepting place I have ever been. So far. With just about everything. Earlier this year when I saw my interim PCP. While the nurse referred to my by my given name. The Dr. as soon as she came in the room it was all Kymmie. (I think that the nurse just didn't read my chart. for my preferred name.) 

 

If anyone has any problems with any employee of the VA about any problem. just about all VA hospitals have a LGBTQ coordinator. Just get a hold of them and problem solved. The VA is serious about our care. I have only had one negative comment and that was from another vet. but he just said, must be don't ask don't tell. as he walked by. really no biggie. 

 

I highly suggest any Vet who is transgender to go to the VA. they will truly help.

 

Kymmie

Link to comment
  • 4 months later...

I finally have an appointment with a VA endo..... March 17 blood work is in, letter if intent is in.... ready to start HRT!!!

Link to comment
  • Forum Moderator

Happy St. Patrick's day!

 

Also happy second birthday. May your treatment be everything you hope it will be and more besides.

 

Hugs!

Link to comment

Thanks for the information.  I have my first appointment coming up and now I have an idea of what will happen.

 

Link to comment

Create an account or sign in to comment

You need to be a member in order to leave a comment

Create an account

Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!

Register a new account

Sign in

Already have an account? Sign in here.

Sign In Now
  • Who's Online   12 Members, 0 Anonymous, 111 Guests (See full list)

    • Abigail Genevieve
    • MaeBe
    • KathyLauren
    • Betty K
    • Ashley0616
    • Astrid
    • MaryEllen
    • Petra Jane
    • SamC
    • Charlize
    • Mallory Mayson
    • awkward-yet-sweet
  • Recently Browsing   0 members

    • No registered users viewing this page.
  • Forum Statistics

    • Total Topics
      80.6k
    • Total Posts
      767.9k
  • Member Statistics

    • Total Members
      12,012
    • Most Online
      8,356

    Kayla93
    Newest Member
    Kayla93
    Joined
  • Today's Birthdays

    1. 777fleetleader777
      777fleetleader777
      (21 years old)
    2. ArinHallm3
      ArinHallm3
      (18 years old)
    3. ITakMyTime
      ITakMyTime
      (70 years old)
    4. Jess31
      Jess31
      (40 years old)
    5. Natalie71645
      Natalie71645
      (39 years old)
  • Posts

    • Adrianna Danielle
      I will be meeting her wife tonight
    • Betty K
      Thank you Vidanjali that is so great to hear. I'm glad the joy comes across even though the subjects are dark, and especially that my voice is pretty! This was really a breakthrough for me, and I revelled in the entire process. Never had creating music been so effortless from start to finish.
    • Charlize
      The thoughts and suggestions above are certainly excellent!  I might also suggest that you continue to reach out to the trans community where your feelings are understood through experience.  I have found that helpful.  The is especially true when i try to help another in distress, not to look for a fellow sufferer but to help another find a path to self acceptance and peace.  Funny how helping another can pull me out of my own funk. We are here to help as we can.  Remember you are not alone in your feelings.   Hugs,   Charlize
    • Vidanjali
      This is great, Betty. Your voice is so pretty and soothing. I listened to both tracks on your channel. The messages are clear and there is a very effective tone for the content you are portraying as it neither sounds antagonistic nor overtly facetious, but rather empowered and joyful. 
    • Vidanjali
      @FinnyFinsterHH I am sorry to hear you're struggling so much. I'll start by saying I understand how this feels because I too have had episodes where I've gotten very upset about my chest to the point of panic or depression. So, I will offer what advice I can, but understand I know it's not easily done, though there are ways through it. Gradually think about whether someone you know can help get you a binder. Until then, because you feel this way when you realize your chest is there, you can work on developing mental techniques to get your mind off dwelling on your chest. You'll realize your chest is there throughout the day, of course, because the chest is a prominent part of the body.   First, think about addressing the physical reaction. Drink a glass of water and take several deep breaths. This can help to calm your body.   I strongly recommend mindfulness and meditation practices. You can practice techniques throughout the day, wherever you are. For example, say you catch a glimpse of yourself in a reflective surface and begin to feel sick, seeing the chest. Take a moment and instead cast your glance on anything around you, preferably something in nature like looking up at the sky or at a tree. Describe the object you're viewing in neutral terms meaning describe the color, texture, shape, borders, patterns, etc.; but avoid personal or emotional description such as, "It makes me feel..." or "It reminds me of...". This will redirect your mind away from dwelling on your body shape and calm the nervous system. There are many more mindfulness practices you can find online.   You can also try using a CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) journal app. In such an app will guide you to describe what upset you, the feelings, thoughts, and beliefs involved, analyzing and reframing them.    Finally, consider developing a regular meditation practice. This will strengthen your mind and gradually you will find yourself less prone to feeling consumed by upsetting events.    I should also mention, if you are artistic, consider channeling your experience into artistic expression. This has worked for me before - I've created a few art pieces addressing my experience of gender dysphoria. in such a way that felt empowering - like I owned it instead of it owning me.   None of these things is a quick fix. Nor should they be because what you're dealing with is a deep issue. But will sustained effort you can find your way to living with more peace and comfort.
    • VickySGV
      I am a little different in my angle of approach on this one, but my skepticism on the "Phishing Trips" the AG's are taking is that they have gone into these investigations with the idea that illegal actions are occurring regularly.  They are going in on the information of unharmed third parties who have imagined fantastic "theories and plots of harm".  What is going to happen when the institutions turn over information that has NONE of this fantasy outcome in it.  Proof of a negative is impossible under standard logic and even most Laws of Evidence.  Just because the records do not show it happened will not in their minds equate to harm not having happened, just that someone is lying to them or covering up something that they know from their personal fantasies.  The problem is that they have made a public face of wisdom and social courage against the fantastic, they have their "glorious Quest"" and like Don Quixote will be tearing up windmills looking to justify their private images.
    • Ivy
      This sounds really good.  Good luck with it.
    • Ivy
      It's (questionably) legal terrorism, in my opinion, to scare people out of transitioning.  But that is the goal, isn't it, to eradicate transgender people. They know what they're doing, and so do we.
    • Jani
    • Jani
      The Move, an interesting part of UK rock history.
    • Ivy
      Footwear is one thing I sometimes go with mens'.  Basically, it's hard to find stuff big enough in womens', especially at a place like that.  For flip-flops I go for cheap since there're gonna tear up anyway.
    • Jani
      Be a good listener.  Sometimes people just want to talk.
    • KymmieL
      @Adrianna Danielle Congrats on a supportive new neighbor. LOL.   Kymmie 
    • Mirrabooka
      @awkward-yet-sweet, good for you! I hope it works out. We all know about the three basic things required for happiness; someone to love, something to do and something to look forward to. You've just ticked a couple of boxes there!
    • KatieSC
      There is no question that what is going on is abusive, and an overreach of authority with regard to going after medical records. Where things get a little dodgy, The Health Information Portability and Accountability Act includes clauses that permit a healthcare entity to disclose information relevant to a criminal investigation. It is not a carte blanche offering of the entire medical record. It will be interesting as the attorneys general in a number of R states have tried to criminalize our treatment, especially kids. As such, it will be interesting if they will be permitted to engage in these fishing expeditions.   These AGs are so convinced that their fantasies of transitioning kids are being held hostage and forced to transition, are being done to punish the kids. I am fed up with their overreach of authority. Unfortunately some supremely elevated jurists seem to be somewhat polarized and are supporting their R associates no matter what the science says. It is truly sad.
  • Upcoming Events

Contact TransPulse

TransPulse can be contacted in the following ways:

Email: Click Here.

To report an error on this page.

Legal

Your use of this site is subject to the following rules and policies, whether you have read them or not.

Terms of Use
Privacy Policy
DMCA Policy
Community Rules

Hosting

Upstream hosting for TransPulse provided by QnEZ.

Sponsorship

Special consideration for TransPulse is kindly provided by The Breast Form Store.
×
×
  • Create New...