I thank Dr Drummond for his comments on the clinical challenge we published last month. With the legal and healthcare issues impacting the transgender community, providers need to have a heightened awareness of the transgender community to address their very specific and growing needs. Retail pharmacies and the clinics within their walls strive to provide the best customer service to all customers and should do so in a personalized manner.
An increased sensitivity, followed by training of employees about proper communication, is needed in the retail setting. Areas of key focus should include patient reception, prescription drop-off and pick-up, and in-pharmacy counseling.
Sensitivity to claims rejections, and handling of prior authorizations with physicians and/or insurers to help transgender patients obtain coverage for medication or service provided.
Education, awareness, and increased sensitivity are key components to successfully treat members of the transgender community with the highest level of success.
(See "Letter to the Editor: Healthcare Providers and the Transgender Community.")
