1. Transgender Issues LAFAN IN-SERVICE March 2, 2004 Tom Donohoe, MBA Maria Roman Sandra Rogers, MFT

2. Workshop Objectives At the end of the workshop, participants will be able to: At the end of the workshop, participants will be able to: Discuss transgender terms and definitions. Discuss transgender terms and definitions. Review transgender health needs in Los Angeles, with a focus on HIV. Review transgender health needs in Los Angeles, with a focus on HIV. Examine how HIV service providers and agencies can help address these needs. Examine how HIV service providers and agencies can help address these needs. Obtain a transgender resource list for Los Angeles. Obtain a transgender resource list for Los Angeles.

3. UCLA AETC Tom Donohoe, Director (310) 794 – 7821 Warmline: (800) 933 - 3413 PEPline: (888) HIV - 4911 (448)

6. The Los Angeles Transgender Health Study Community Report May, 2001 Cathy Reback, Ph.D. et al APAIT, Bienestar, and Van Ness Recovery House

7. Los Angeles Transgender Health Study: Summary of key findings:  33% - injected substance other than hormones, such as oil or silicone to enhance gender presentation.  44% - currently injecting hormones, 72% of these from non-medical sources.  64% - no current health insurance.  88% - reported history of verbal abuse (47% physical). HIV seroprevalence of 22% is among the highest of any group reported in Los Angeles County

8. Recommendations  HIV prevention interventions must be tailored to MTF transgenders.  Transgendered persons must have access to healthcare services that are sensitive to the medical and psychological issues related to gender transition.  HIV prevention interventions should include alcohol and drug assessments, and when necessary, referral to transgender-sensitive treatment.  Job training should be incorporated into HIV intervention programs.  Additional resources are urgently needed for HIV prevention and treatment services targeting transgenders.