The role of telehealth in gender-affirming care - with Dr. Jerrica Kirkley

The rise in telehealth utilization, especially amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, has highlighted the potential of virtual care to expand access to services. These can be particularly important for those who may face hurdles to brick-and-mortar care. Dr. Jerrica Kirkley, co-founder and chief medical officer of Plume, joins Healthcare IT News Senior Editor Kat Jercich to discuss the potential of telemedicine for trans and gender-nonconforming people.Talking points:The need for data to support gender-affirming careThe dynamic, multifactorial process of providing services for LGBTQ peoplePatients are based across the country, including large metro areasYounger people are increasingly likely to identify as trans or gender-nonconformingInsurance coverage doesn't necessarily guarantee careWhat gender-affirming care entailsThe role of state licensing in telehealth expansionHow communities are being centered in careMore about this episode:More inclusive EHRs can help extend welcome, save transgender livesBeyond 'male, female, unknown' – informaticists propose gender-inclusive HL7 modelTelehealth has enabled wider access during COVID-19 – but not for everyoneStates can make a difference in long-term telehealth policiesDigital transgender health company Plume scores $14M in Series A funding