GAM FAQ

See below for some commonly asked questions about GAM and GLAM.

If you have a question you can’t find the answer to, please contact us.

What is GAM?

GAM is an abbreviation for gender-affirming medicine. Gender affirmation is an updated way to talk about transition. We say “affirmation” rather than “transition” because we view the process as accepting who you have always been, rather than a transition from one sex to the other. Everyone affirms their gender differently, and “transition” excludes nonbinary and gender diverse people. We’re here to support you on your gender journey.

How can I learn more about GAM?

You can request an appointment online or call 203-903-8308 for assistance over the phone. During your visit, you can ask questions and discuss your gender, affirmation goals, and next steps with a provider.

How is Anchor Health’s approach to GAM different?

We have no barriers to your affirmation, such as mental health assessments, therapy letters, forms, or consent waivers.

Do you respect my identity and what I want hormones to do to my body?

Absolutely! Although we can’t predict exactly what hormones will do in your body, we work closely with you to reach your goals. This is your affirmation and we’re here to support you.

How do I get started?

Follow the steps below.

Step 1: Contact us

You can request an appointment online and we’ll contact you within 1-2 business days with your next steps. You can also call 203-903-8308 for assistance over the phone.

Step 2: Complete paperwork

You can complete our patient registration form online. It can also be mailed to you, picked up, or completed in the office before your appointment. If you complete the form before your appointment, you must arrive at least 15 minutes earlier than your appointment time, otherwise, it will be rescheduled. Please let us know if you need assistance completing the form.

Step 3: Get scheduled

We’ll contact you to schedule your appointment. You can let us know if you have any requests for providers or days and times.

I’m under 18. Can I get hormones and/or puberty blockers?

We believe all trans and gender diverse youth deserve gender-affirming health care, full stop.

If you’re under 18 years old, the current laws require your medical guardian(s) to sign informed consent forms for you to start hormones and puberty blockers. With the consent of your medical guardian(s), our medical affirmation options include hormone and puberty blocker administration and monitoring. You can bring your medical guardian(s) to your appointment if they have questions or concerns.

Am I guaranteed to get GAM if I follow these steps?

We first need to make sure a prescription is safe for you.

What if I have already taken hormones/supplements to help my affirmation?

That’s okay. If you’ve taken hormones without a prescription, used “street” hormones, bought hormones online, or taken supplements, you can still get GAM with us. Just make sure to tell your provider.

How much will this cost?

It depends on your insurance, most cover GAM. We work with most major insurances, including plans through: 

  • Aetna  
  • Blue Cross Blue Shield   
  • Cigna  
  • ConnectiCare (including Medicare plans) 
  • Harvard Pilgrim Health Care  
  • Medicaid/Husky  
  • Medicare  
  • Multiplan  
  • PHCS  
  • UMR  
  • United Healthcare (including Medicare and Oxford plans) 

We also accept all exchange plans through the Health Insurance Marketplace (Access Health CT).  

Please note that this isn’t a complete list. If you have questions regarding your specific plan, please contact your insurance carrier directly.  

If you are uninsured or underinsured, we offer discounted and/or free services for those who qualify based on family size and income. You can also get discounted prices for prescriptions through our pharmacy. You may be responsible for additional charges incurred during visits, such as lab costs and prescriptions. Please contact us to learn more and apply.

What information do you share with my insurance company?

If you get GAM through your insurance, they will see a diagnosis of “endocrine disorder.” We code your affirmation as a medical condition rather than a mental health condition to remove the stigma from your identity. Being trans is not a mental health condition and not all trans people experience dysphoria. If your insurance requires a specific diagnosis for you to get gender-affirming care, please let us know. If you do not use your insurance, we’ll enroll you in our income-based discount program.

I want surgery. Can you tell me what surgeons to use?

No, but we can tell you who we frequently refer patients to and what surgeons accept your insurance.

Can I stop taking GAM at any time?

Yes. You’re in charge of your affirmation, but please tell your provider.

Do I have to go to therapy to get hormones?

No. Being trans or gender diverse is not a mental illness. 

Trauma-informed behavioral health services are available to current patients. If you’re interested in a consultation, please call 203-903-8308, send us a MyChart message, or let your medical provider know during your next visit.

Where else can I find informed consent GAM providers?

Check out a map below of every medical facility in the country that offers GAM via informed consent. It was created by Erin Reed in 2019.

Become a Patient

Please request a GLAM appointment online or call 203-903-8308 for assistance over the phone.