Medical practice and related services

Tender description

NHS England is the direct commissioner of specialised health interventions for the alleviation of gender dysphoria, which is characterised by a strong and persistent cross-gender identification (such as stating a desire to be the other sex or frequently passing as the other sex) coupled with persistent discomfort with his or her sex. NHS England (National) will commission and directly contract for an early adopter pilot (Trans Health Service) that will evaluate how the treatment interventions delivered by a specialist Gender Dysphoria Clinic can be delivered by a primary care team in a local setting, adapted to meet the specific needs of the population of Greater Manchester. NHS England invites expressions of interest in the provision of the early adopter pilot over 2 years, from 2019. The current model for delivery of non-surgical therapeutic interventions for adults with gender dysphoria is restricted to seven Gender Dysphoria Clinics in England, who provide: assessment, diagnosis; overall care coordination; and who deliver or arrange access to psychological interventions and voice and communication therapy; and make recommendations for prescribing of endocrine therapies. NHS England will commission and directly contract for an early adopter pilot that will evaluate how the service delivered by a specialist Gender Dysphoria Clinic (adults from 17 years of age) can be delivered by a primary care team in a local setting. The primary care team will receive accredited academic and experiential training funded by NHS England. The scope of delivery will be developed on a phased basis (6 to 9 months) to reflect the increased competencies attained through the accredited training programme. The Trans Health Service will have a formal relationship with a Gender Dysphoria Clinic that is commissioned by NHS England. The Trans Health Service and the Gender Dysphoria Clinic will work together to develop the necessary joint working arrangements for the management of individuals accessing the service. The Trans Health Service will participate in a formal evaluation of the service over 2 years.