At Beccles Medical Centre, we deeply value the dignity and identity of each of our patients. We are committed to providing a welcoming and supportive environment for all individuals, recognising the unique experiences and needs of our transgender patients.
Ensuring that we accurately reflect your personal details is a vital part of respecting your identity and providing the best care possible. We are here to support you through this process and ensure that your healthcare experience is as comfortable as possible. The following information explains your options and how to submit these requests. We have worked hard to ensure this process is as stress-free and smooth as possible. We value your feedback and welcome any suggestions you may have. You can submit these via email to nwicb.becclesmedical@nhs.net.
Updating Your Personal Details
We understand that your name, title, and gender marker are integral parts of your identity. Transgender patients are welcome to request changes to their name, title, and gender marker at any time, without needing to provide proof or a Gender Recognition Certificate (GRC). Our goal is to make this process as simple and respectful as possible.
Change of Name
Your updated name will be used by staff, on the automated call-in screen, and in communications from the Practice (e.g., SMS, letters, email).
Change of Title
You can change your title on your NHS records to any of Mr/Mx/Miss/Mrs/Ms without changing your gender or name.
Please note:
- The NHS computer system is currently binary.
- Titles accepted with a male gender marker: Mr or Mx.
- Titles accepted with a female gender marker: Mx/Miss/Mrs/Ms.
- If you wish to use another title, we can add an alert to your notes to reflect your gender identity. Please discuss this with any staff member.
To request a name or title change, please complete this form which can be found on our website. If you need a paper copy, it is available at reception.
Note: Changing your name does not automatically change the gender marker on your medical record. Please inform us if you would like this updated as well.
Gender Marker Change
Your gender marker defines your sex within the clinical record. You do not need to have undergone gender affirmation treatment, be referred to a gender identity clinic, or provide official documentation to request this change.
The system currently only accepts male or female gender markers. If you identify as non-binary or another gender, we can add an alert to your notes to reflect your identity.
When your gender marker is changed:
- You will be issued a new NHS number (this is not reversible).
- You will be registered at the practice as a ‘new patient’.
- All previous medical information will be transferred to your new record.
- Information related to your previous gender identity will not be included in the new record.
- We can redact gender-specific terminology to protect your privacy before rescanning documents into your new record.
Complete medical records help avoid missed or delayed diagnoses and support safe, individualised care. If this process suits your needs, please contact us here.
What Happens After a Gender Marker Change?
Changing your gender marker may affect the screening invitations you receive. Some screenings are based on the gender marker in your NHS record, which may not align with your current health needs.
You may need to proactively request screenings that are relevant to you. Please speak with us if you need assistance.
How Long Will the Process Take?
- A new NHS number can take over 4 weeks to be issued.
- Once received, we will register you within 5 days and merge your old records (excluding previous identity information).
- We recommend ordering a 2-month supply of medication in advance.
- You will be informed of your new NHS number by PCSE. If not, please contact us.
- You may need to inform hospitals of your new NHS number.
Screening Information
Screening invitations vary based on your gender marker and assigned sex at birth. Below is a summary:
Trans Women and Non-Binary People Assigned Male at Birth
Registered as Female:
- Invited for breast screening
- Invited for bowel cancer screening
- May be invited for cervical screening (not needed)
- Not routinely invited for AAA screening (can request)
Registered as Male:
- Not routinely invited for breast screening (can request)
- Invited for bowel cancer screening
- Not invited for cervical screening
- Invited for AAA screening
Trans Men and Non-Binary People Assigned Female at Birth
Registered as Female:
- Invited for breast screening
- Invited for bowel cancer screening
- Invited for cervical screening
- Not invited for AAA screening
Registered as Male:
- Not routinely invited for breast screening (can request if breast tissue remains)
- Invited for bowel cancer screening
- Can opt-in for cervical screening by contacting GP or clinic
- Invited for AAA screening (low risk)
We welcome you to have your cervical screening at the GP surgery with highly trained staff. If you have concerns, please book a telephone appointment with a nurse to discuss.
You may also contact a specialist NHS clinic for cervical screening. Options include:
- Trans – 56 Dean Street
- My Body Back Project – Rape and sexual assault support in London
- cliniQ @ King’s South London – cliniQ
If you need reminders for screening tests affected by your gender marker change, please let us know. We can add diary entries to your record to ensure you receive appropriate reminders.