(032) Direct-to-Consumer Telemedicine Companies Offering Gender Affirming Hormone Therapy

Abstract Introduction As direct-to-consumer telemedicine (DTCT) companies increase virtual services for gender affirming medical therapy, examination of platform practices is essential to ensure the field’s standard care being met and cost-effective offered. This especially important considering reduced access potentially increased vulnerability gender-diverse population. Objective We aimed describe offered by DTCT therapy compare them current standards care. also compared associated costs each with those that may be encountered similar at a tertiary center. Methods Google was queried in March 2022 identify platforms offering therapy. Platforms based outside US were excluded. Websites reviewed information regarding transgender costs. Using single institution’s online cost estimator, pay-per-service estimated center patient without insurance, private Medicaid. The first year either oral estradiol or intramuscular testosterone calculated between Services provided recommended World Professional Associated Transgender Health (WPATH) Standards Care, Version 7.1. Results Six identified: Folx, True U Clinic, QueerDoc, Queer Med, Trans Clinique, Plume. All hormone several other (Table 1). utilized an Informed Consent Model None mental behavioral health services. Laboratory assessments treatment monitoring least quarterly upon initiation, typically frequency ongoing Several monthly membership payment plans ranging from $59 - $139/month varying service inclusion, while plans. first-year initiation via insurance ranged $1,022 $1,428 $1,184 $1,668 In comparison, estrogen $1,216, respectively (Figure Estimated lower Conclusions offer transgender, non-binary, intersex people. regular follow up laboratory assessment, which appear consistent guidelines presented WPATH. For patients hormones are through There likely benefit receiving can greatly expand Disclosure No