More and more research continues to guide and inform gender-affirming care. Like most areas of health care, experience and knowledge continues to evolve. Today, a combination of research, evidence, clinical training, experience, ongoing consultation and learning inform health care provision for trans, Two-Spirit, non-binary youth and adults.

Around the world, many people are discussing how best to offer care to gender diverse young people. In many places, including Canada, momentum is strong to keep improving this care and the experiences of youth who need it. Gender diverse young people are showing up and asking for support, and oftentimes it is hard for them to find and access the care they need.

We know that these days, more young people are expressing a gender identity other than what was assumed for them at birth. Some are reclaiming this as a powerful and decolonial act. A smaller number of these youth will need specific medical interventions for gender transition.  For those who need this timely medical care, access is critical.

Research continues to support the need for health care providers and others to more consistently ask about health care needs related to gender. This will help those who need care to find and access it in a timely fashion. This is an important part of considering the overall health care needs for all youth.

Current standards for gender-affirming care promote individualized care planning and support. Gender-affirming care needs are not isolated and need to be considered within the context of an individual’s whole health.

The effects of medical intervention, outcomes and safety have and continue to be studied. Conversations about risks, medication side-effects, known and unknown outcomes and readiness happen between a youth, their caregivers and their medical providers and must always be considered before starting any treatment. These are important individual health decisions and a personal choice.  It is crucial that we continue to build wraparound and supportive approaches to providing this care as a part of the overall health care provided to young people.