Depending on your individual gender-affirming care goals, your primary care provider may need to better understand your experience with gender. This is usually done through a conversation and helps them to understand the ways in which your gender identity might not align with the sex you were assigned at birth. This conversation will help them support you in achieving your goals as much as possible within the Alberta healthcare system.

To get ready for your appointment with your healthcare provider:

• Think of what your gender-affirming goals are and what is most important for you.
• Ask yourself what type of support you are looking for. For example, are you looking for guidance and resources for updating your name, looking for support groups in your area, or wanting to discuss medical gender-affirming options?
• Write down how you feel and how your experience with gender has been for you. Consider writing down how you would describe your gender identity and what your goals are from treatment.
• Make a list of your questions and concerns. When you’re done, mark the things that are most important to you.
• Make a list of the prescription and non-prescription (over-the-counter) medicines you use, including any vitamins, herbs, and supplements.
• If you think you would benefit from someone else’s support, ask someone you trust to go with you to your appointment. They can help you ask questions, advocate for you, write down instructions, and remember what was said.
• Bring a pen and paper and plan to write notes during the visit. Or you can record the conversation using your phone or an app like the Alberta Health Services My Care Conversations app.

If you start any medicines, consider using a journal to write down the changes that you notice, when you notice them, and whether the changes are positive or negative. You can share this information with your healthcare team.

For support talking with your healthcare provider, see Trans Care BC: Speaking with your provider.