Carys Massarella, MD, FRCPC, is a trailblazing emergency medicine physician at McMaster University and the Lead Physician of the Transcare Program at Quest Community Health Centre in St. Catharines, Ontario. A proud Sudbury native and graduate of the University of Western Ontario, Dr. Massarella is widely recognized for her pioneering work in transgender healthcare. She is one of the few “non-pathologizing” trans-care providers in Ontario, advocating for an approach that affirms transgender identities without framing them as medical or psychological disorders.
Her practice centers on providing respectful, medically appropriate access to hormone therapy, surgical referrals, and support throughout transition, emphasizing that negative health outcomes among transgender individuals are the result of social inequities, not their identities. As a passionate advocate for reform in medical education and diagnostic standards, Dr. Massarella challenges outdated perceptions of gender identity in healthcare. Her TEDx Talk, The False Narrative of Deception, has helped amplify her message on a global stage.
Monika: Hello Carys! I’ve been hoping to speak with you for such a long time, having you here truly feels like a dream come true.
Carys: Hello Monika! I’m honored to help make your dream come true. It’s truly a pleasure to speak with such a kind, intelligent woman. The work you’re doing for our community is inspiring and deeply appreciated.
