For Veterans in gender transition, finding their voice can be enhanced with the help of specially trained speech-language pathologists. Through the Gender Affirming Program for Speech (GAPS) project, 10 VA speech-language pathologists utilize telehealth technology to provide voice and communication training to transgender Veterans living in rural communities.
GAPS is a collaborative project between VA’s LGBTQ+ Health Program, the Audiology & Speech Program Office, and the Office of Rural Health Veterans, Rural Health Resource Center in Portland, Oregon. Since February 2021, more than 200 transgender Veterans have been referred to the program.
