Why you should read this article:

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To be aware that transgender people experience discrimination and suboptimal healthcare experiences and outcomes

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To recognise that lack of access to targeted, inclusive and compassionate healthcare services may have significant adverse effects on the mental health of transgender people

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To read about a holistic and inclusive clinic that combines routine primary care services with gender-affirming care for transgender patients

Transgender people experience various challenges in the context of healthcare, including discrimination, suboptimal physical and mental health outcomes and an elevated risk of mortality. They also endure long waiting times for gender identity clinic appointments. The Bridge at Southwark is a nurse-led transgender primary care service in south east London set up in December 2022. The Bridge clinic, which is the first of its kind in England, offers a novel approach to providing primary care services and gender-affirming care, including bridging hormone prescriptions, to transgender patients. This article explores the current climate of healthcare for transgender people and details the development and running of the clinic.