Working with transgender clients: learning from physicians and nurses to improve occupational therapy practice.

Background: Gender identity disorder and the process of transitioning involve both mental and physical health, yet there is virtually no discussion of transgender health care in occupational therapy.

Purpose: This study draws on interviews with primary-care nurses and physicians about their experience with transgender health care, extending the insights gleaned there to make suggestions for occupational therapy practice with this population.

Method: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 12 primary care nurses and 9 physicians who had clinical experience with lesbian, gay, and bisexual patients.