Feasibility of a peer-navigation model of care to support transgender individuals undergoing feminizing gender-affirming hormone therapy: A qualitative study

Background Many trans individuals pursue gender-affirming hormone therapy as part of a larger journey of social, medical, and legal transition. Whilst social support is well-documented as being important for the wellbeing of trans people, structured peer-navigation is underexplored. This research explored, from the perspective of a sample of Australian trans individuals, whether a formalized, structured peer-navigation model may be feasible to support individuals undergoing feminizing gender-affirming hormone therapy within an Australian context.Methods A sample of 15 participants recruited from a larger study exploring hormonal titration completed semi-structured interviews. Interviews focused broadly on the experiences of gender-affirming hormone therapy, including the role of social support and specifically peer-navigation. Data were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis.Results Participants were aged between 19 and 55 (average age 30). Thematic analysis identified three themes. Theme 1 demonstrated positive perceptions toward a peer-navigation model of care, but also acknowledgement that not all would be interested. Theme 2 described how participants believed the additional advice of peers could extend the healthcare offered by providers. Theme 3 highlighted how peer-navigation is already occurring informally among peer networks, but access is not universal.Conclusions Participants were receptive toward a peer-navigation model of care to support trans individuals through feminizing gender-affirming hormone therapy. Co-creation of a model of care should consider broader elements of social, medical, and legal transition to provide holistic support. Harnessing the pre-existing social support within trans communities into formalized structures may improve health outcomes for trans individuals and communities.