WPATH

[Heather Shay]

is there a simple rule of thumb or simplified bullet point checklist of WPATH requirements and general guidelines doctors use when you inquire about GRS (SRS)?

[KathyLauren]

You will need to have been on HRT for one year and have lived in the desired role full-time for one year.  You will need letters from two different mental health professionals, basically certifying that you are in good mental health, and that you have gender dysphoria.

 

Some insurance companies and some doctors have additional requirements that do not come WPATH.  Here, the government insurance requires a letter from a medical specialist.  If one of the two WPATH letters is from a psychiatrist, that counts.  Otherwise, you need a third letter.  I have heard that some medical insurance in the US has similar requirements.  Most surgeons will require that you have some kind of support at home and/or to get home, since you will be somewhat incapacitated at first.

[Jani]

Kathy's response is complete.  Just remember that each doctor is independent and may have additional requirements. Most will involve health, like heart condition, weight, BMI and the like. 

[Heather Shay]

Those are what I've been told - and I have also been told - that the 1 year requirement is now just recommended and sadly I see Medicare in the U.S. most likely does not cover...

 

I do have a consult with a GRS surgeon this week and I wanted to be as prepared as possible.

 

Thank You,

[Heather Shay]

is a legal name change required or optional?

[Jani]

Its not required but it helps to substantiate that you've lived in the desired roll.  

[Maddee]

You're moving real fast Shay!

Maybe it's moving fast for you.

 

May things happen in the perfect timing for you now.  Please share what you learn at your surgery consult next week.

[Heather Shay]

I will do - I know it might seem fast but it took 68 years to get here and I know I will have many mountains to climb, roads that are blocked and struggles to endure but the quicker I have the facts and can develop to quickest way from here to there - the better I know I will feel - and will know what to do about it.

 

[Kylie]

I agree with the aforementioned comments. My insurance company (Cigna) through my employer has very strong trans-inclusive policy; not for surgeries like FFS/BA. But cover everything else pretty well. They follow WPATH strictly. They don't deviate away and add any additional requirements. I did find out though they weigh their decisions heavily on Psychiatric/Mental Health counseling. I have been going to a Gender Therapist for a good while and they approve me very quickly since I am committed to following along with a counselor throughout this entire process.

 

Whatever your speed, may it be a comfort to you along your journey that you are finding yourself.

 

Kylie

[Heather Shay]

@Kylie wish i wasnt retired and on medicare. .but i have been selling comics i collected as a kid and have $15,000 saved so far.

Wish i could take care of your cat while you are becoming the true physical you.

will be thinking of you the whole time and cannot wait to hear how well things go.

Hugs,

Shay