Liane Kee, MD; Corina Norrbom, MD
WMJ. 2026;125(3):354-358. Published August 11, 2026.
ABSTRACT
Introduction: The body of literature surrounding transgender health care primarily focuses on metropolitan populations and resource-rich areas. This qualitative study examines the perspectives of transgender patients in northcentral Wisconsin to identify recommendations for more comprehensive, inclusive health care practices.
Methods: A series of semistructured interviews was conducted with recipients of gender-affirming care residing in northcentral Wisconsin. A mixed deductive-inductive approach was used for qualitative thematic analysis.
Results: A total of 10 interviews were completed. Qualitative analysis revealed 3 key themes contributing to positive and negative experiences with health care providers: education, cultural competency, and access.
Discussion: Patients reported feeling supported by health care providers but not always that providers were well equipped to address their specific health needs. The attitudes of all members of the health care team contributed to participants’ feelings of acceptance and comfort in the health care environment. Participants living in rural areas cited transportation challenges and provider scarcity as barriers to gender-affirming care.
Conclusions: Health care providers play an important role in mitigating health disparities among transgender patients. Experience providing gender-affirming care, nonjudgmental attitudes, and visible displays of allyship are associated with positive clinician-patient relationships.