RX FOR TRANS AFFIRMATION

If you're unsure of someone's pronouns, it's easy to ask, "my pronouns are she/her, what pronouns do you use?" For names, you can ask "what name do you go by?"* or "do you go by another name or nickname that you would like me to put on your file?"*. Alternatively, you can let them know, "our pharmacy has the ability to add a preferred name or nickname to your file, and we can update this at any time".* Refer to their name when sharing it with others as "they call themselves" or "she goes by". 

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Research from The Trevor Project shows that youth who reported having their correct pronouns used by the people they lived with had half the rate of attempted suicide compared to those who did not have their pronouns respected. Showing respect through the use of someone's name and pronouns is a powerful action. So is doing the opposite.

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To be an ally to transgender patients, you need to take the time to find out their name and their pronouns and to ensure that this is documented in their chart so that all staff are aware and can use it consistently. Trauma while accessing healthcare happens far too often, with the first interaction fraught with potential problems: what is your name? Calling a transgender person by the wrong name can compromise their safety and will certainly cause gender dysphoria. Check out the ideas at Gender Related Data Management to help streamline this process for your team.

In order to avoid using the wrong name, you can ask, "what name do you go by?" or 'Hi, I'm Shannon, can I ask your name?" If you are unsure but want to show allyship, it's always best to ask in a friendly, conversational tone.

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*Questions for collecting a preferred name are taken from the gendeRx webinar by Dr. Sam J. Miller (2021).

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Use the resources below to educate yourself on the various terms associated with gender identity and sexual orientation, as well as pronouns.