At our practice, we believe that everyone deserves to feel seen, heard, and respected when navigating their healthcare journey. We understand that exploring your gender identity can be a deeply personal experience, and we are committed to providing a supportive, inclusive environment where your rights are protected and your voice is central to your care.
Gender Identity and Your Rights
Every patient in Scotland has the right to be treated with dignity and to receive healthcare that is free from discrimination. These rights are protected under the Equality Act 2010 and the Patient Rights (Scotland) Act 2011.
Whether you are just beginning to explore your identity or have been on this path for some time, you have the right to:
- Be addressed by your preferred name and pronouns.
- Have your privacy and confidentiality strictly maintained regarding your gender history.
- Access clear, honest information about your treatment options and waiting times.
- Participate fully in shared decision-making about your health.
If you feel your rights have not been respected, you can access support and advice through the Patient Advice and Support Service or find detailed information on NHS Inform.
The Treatment Pathway
The way gender identity services are delivered in Scotland is guided by the NHS Scotland Gender Identity Healthcare Protocol and the national Healthcare Improvement Scotland Standards.
This protocol ensures a consistent pathway from your initial enquiry through to the completion of your care. It is designed to be person-centred, meaning your goals and wellbeing are the priority.
1. Initial Discussion and Referral
The first step is usually a conversation with a clinician here at the practice. We can discuss your needs and make a referral to a specialist Gender Identity Clinic (GIC). In Scotland, adults and young people now require a referral from a clinician to access these specialist services.
2. Specialist Assessment
Once you reach the top of the waiting list, the GIC multidisciplinary team will work with you to understand your history and your goals. This assessment is a collaborative process to confirm a diagnosis of gender dysphoria or incongruence and to discuss potential pathways.
3. Care Planning and Treatment
If you and your specialist team decide to move forward with medical or surgical interventions, a formal care plan is created. This may include:
- Hormone therapy
- Speech and language therapy
- Support with social transition
- Referrals for gender-affirming surgeries
4. Ongoing Support
We continue to support you throughout this process. This often involves “shared care,” where we work alongside the specialist clinic to provide ongoing prescriptions and necessary health monitoring, such as blood tests.
Support for Young People
Healthcare for children and young people is moving toward a more holistic, paediatric-based model. Referrals for those under 18 are typically directed to the Young People’s Gender Service, where the focus is on psychological support, family involvement, and carefully managed clinical pathways.
Waiting Times and Wellbeing
We are aware that waiting times for specialist gender services in Scotland are currently very long. We understand this can be a difficult and distressing period.
While you wait for your specialist appointment, you can find a wealth of resources and community support through Scottish Trans or LGBT Health and Wellbeing.