July 20, 2022
People in N.S. who seek gender-affirming surgery no longer need a letter of support from a specialist to apply for the procedure. A psychosocial assessment letter is still needed but the province is making it so more healthcare professionals can write it. Physicians, NPs and specialists who have specific skills in gender-affirming care can complete the assessment, provide the letter and sign the application. The province says the changes will cut wait times, as it can take months to see a specialist and speak with a mental health clinician specifically trained in gender-affirming care, to complete the process.
Related:
La N.-É. réduit les obstacles aux soins d'affirmation de genre - La Presse canadienne