Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a treatment that replaces hormones when your body no longer produces enough on its own. HRT often uses the hormones estrogen and progesterone to treat common symptoms of menopause like hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and mood changes.
You typically need a letter from a qualified medical professional to start HRT. This letter is from your primary care provider or an endocrinologist after assessing your health, risk factors, and hormone levels through blood tests. The letter outlines the dose and type of hormones you'll receive.
Reasons you may need an HRT letter:
- Prescription: HRT involves taking prescription hormones. Your medical provider must determine if HRT is right for you and prescribe appropriate hormones.
- Insurance: Many insurance companies require a diagnosis letter to demonstrate medical necessity for coverage.
- Informed consent: The letter shows you've been informed about risks, benefits, and alternatives to HRT for your situation. This ensures you can provide true informed consent.
What should be included in an HRT letter?
Your HRT letter should contain key details like:
- Your diagnosis warranting hormone therapy
- The duration you'll undergo treatment
- The dose, route (oral, transdermal patch, etc), frequency, and type of hormones to be taken
- Risks and benefits you've been informed of
- Ongoing monitoring requirements
Who can write an HRT letter?
Qualified medical professionals like:
- Your primary care doctor
- An endocrinologist focusing on hormones
- An OB/GYN focusing on women's hormonal health
- A transgender care specialist focusing on gender-affirming care
Getting your HRT letter
The process may involve:
- Discussing your symptoms and medical history
- Conducting a physical exam and blood tests to check hormone levels
- Reviewing the benefits and risks of HRT for your situation
- Determining the right hormones, dose, and method for your treatment goals
- Writing the all-important HRT letter with the above details
Be prepared to sign
consent forms after getting your letter to start treatment.
Our expert physicians and nurses:
- Offer virtual or in-person appointments
- Perform necessary blood tests
- Determine proper hormones and dosing
- Provide HRT prescription letters
- Arrange any required prior authorizations for insurance coverage
We tailor evidence-based HRT regimens to your unique goals.
Contact us today to get started!