We know that this is an especially challenging time for trans and gender diverse folks facing isolation, grief, health and financial stress, and difficulty accessing care. We want you to know that Fenway Health is committed to providing gender-affirming care as we continue to navigate these uncertain moments.
Fenway continues to provide appointments for gender-affirming care by telehealth, and we are providing in-person visits when essential. Our doors are still open (virtually for the most part) to new patients, existing patients, and community members alike.
In addition to gender affirming medical and behavioral health services at Fenway, we offer additional virtual support resources for trans and gender diverse individuals through our health center, and can provide resources to other organizations as well. A list of virtual support services is available on our website and updated regularly. We are proud to announce that Fenway hosted its first Trans, Non-Binary, and Gender Diverse Peer Support Group meeting via Zoom in recent weeks, and plan to continue this on its typical bi-monthly schedule. We highly encourage anyone who is interested, and/or anyone feeling isolated, stressed, or disconnected to consider attending a meeting.
Many trans and gender diverse folks have had gender-affirming surgeries and surgery consults delayed or cancelled due to COVID-19, and this is a source of stress and anxiety to many. Fenway is offering a free virtual support group for trans and gender diverse folks impacted by this, and you do not have to be a patient to participate. Contact Elly Humphrey, LMHC at 617.927,6017 for more information on the schedule and meeting location.
Additionally, the Massachusetts Transgender Health Coalition has put together an information guide for gender-affirming care in the time of COVID-19. There are some helpful tips on who to reach out to for support and expertise in navigating issues like discrimination and delayed procedures.
This is a new experience for all of us, and we anticipate that there will be bumps along the road as we continue to learn about this new reality. The Trans Health Program at Fenway is here to provide support in the face of these challenges. We can be reached by email at [email protected] or by phone at 857.313.6589.
A recent statement from the Trans Health Program:
We are here for you. Fenway recognizes the medical necessity of gender-affirming care and knows that gender-affirming hormone therapy is an essential service. We are continuing to provide consult visits as best we can via telehealth, refill and adjust hormone prescriptions, and provide any in-person services needed for gender-affirming hormone care (Testopel insertions, hormone injections, etc.).
Fenway is also aware that this is an exceptionally difficult time for trans and non-binary individuals who, on the best of days, already face barriers to accessing care. We will continue to do our part to keep access open and our lines of communication clear for you. If you have any issues accessing these services, please do not hesitate to reach out to the Trans Health Department via email at [email protected].
Want to receive email updates about what’s happening at Fenway Health? Sign up here.