Manitoba

For public coverage of gender-affirming care in Manitoba, a diagnosis of gender dysphoria is required. This can be given by a primary care provider or clinic specializing in gender-affirming care. You can find a primary care provider using the province’s Family Doctor Finder.

Gender-affirming hormone therapy can be accessed through a qualified primary care provider or gender-inclusive clinic (listed below). Hormone therapy prescriptions are partially or conditionally covered, and are also accessible through the Manitoba Pharmacare Program, if eligible.

To qualify for gender-affirming surgeries, Manitoba Health requires a referral letter by an approved psychologist as well as a recognized health care provider. Most surgeries also require a patient to be on hormone replacement therapy for at least one year, and many procedures are conducted out of province, at the Centre de Chirurgie in Montreal. Wait times for surgeries can take up to 30 months. For a full list of what procedures are covered, see this resource for Gender Affirming Services in Manitoba, developed by the Canadian Queer Medical Students Association, or reach out to Manitoba Health.

Manitoba has two main trans health clinics providing gender affirming care, (a youth clinic, and an adult clinic) both located in Winnipeg. However, they both have long wait times. Gender Diversity Assessment and Action for Youth (GDAAY) is a program at HSC Winnipeg Children’s Hospital that offers integrated care and support services for youth through their gender affirming journey. This includes both assessment and treatment for young people up to the age of 14.  The Trans Health Klinic serves people 16 and older seeking transitioning care (hormone start, procedures, and surgery). They require clients to have a primary care provider as they aim to transfer some aspects of care (such as hormone prescription renewals) to their regular health care provider eventually.