What Are WPATH Letters?

WPATH letters, also known as surgical readiness letters or letters of support, are evaluations to provide support for an individual's readiness for gender-affirming surgeries. These letters follow guidelines set by the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) and are crucial documents in the process of obtaining gender-affirming care.

What Do WPATH Letters Consist of?

A comprehensive WPATH letter typically includes the following:

• Information on the client’s diagnosis of gender dysphoria or gender incongruence

• Previous gender-affirming treatments (if any)

• Documentation of living in the desired gender role

• Evaluation of support systems and coping mechanisms

• Assessment of the client’s readiness for surgery

• Confirmation that the client has provided informed consent for the procedure

WPATH letters play an important role in ensuring that individuals seeking gender-affirming surgeries receive appropriate care that aligns with their gender identity.