The AAO-HNS/F recognizes the unique needs of transgender and gender-diverse individuals seeking gender-affirming care. We affirm our commitment to promoting the importance of gender-affirming voice care within our field. Voice is a fundamental aspect of human communication and identity and is widely regarded as one of the key modalities that contributes to the communication of gender to others. Gender-affirming voice care is an essential component of a holistic approach to healthcare for transgender individuals. By addressing the unique vocal needs of this patient population, we contribute to their overall physical and mental well-being. Numerous studies have demonstrated the positive impact of gender-affirming voice care on the mental health and quality of life of transgender individuals. Achieving a voice that is congruent with gender identity is of vital importance for quality of life and mental health for transgender individuals. Accordingly, the AAO-HNSF endorses equity in access to voice care for transgender individuals. Transgender individuals should have access to, and insurance coverage for, appropriate voice care. This voice care includes but is not limited to speech therapy and pitch-altering surgery.
Surgical treatments should be preceded by careful patient selection, counseling and a detailed informed consent discussion.
Approved May 2024
Important Disclaimer Notice (Updated 7/31/14)
Position statements are approved by the American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery or Foundation (AAO-HNS/F) Boards of Directors and are typically generated from AAO-HNS/F committees. Once approved by the Academy or Foundation Board of Directors, they become official position statements and are added to the existing position statement library. In no sense do they represent a standard of care. The applicability of position statements, as guidance for a procedure, must be determined by the responsible physician in light of all the circumstances presented by the individual patient. Adherence to these clinical position statements will not ensure successful treatment in every situation. As with all AAO-HNS/F guidance, this position statement should not be deemed inclusive of all proper treatment decisions or methods of care, nor exclusive of other treatment decisions or methods of care reasonably directed to obtaining the same results. Position statements are not intended to and should not be treated as legal, medical, or business advice.
