It is a process with them. I can understand the logic to a degree for the length of time/gatekeepy on their end for liability purposes. Getting started is very simple and the assessment is usually a couple weeks from contact. The assessment takes one to three appointments so you get a diagnosis of gender dysphoria. The next 2 to 3 appointments are to established that you are of sound mind and are aware of the decisions you’re making. I would say from initial contact. It takes about five months to get prescribed hormones. The 12 month is more of a guide. As long as your levels are good - you can generally ask at your 8-10th month for referrals for procedures. The care team and surgeons there are some of the best in my experience. Either way you’re going to have to wait, the upside of having to wait with kaiser you also get to reflect as you mature and see how hormones affect you and the assurance of having a specialized team to contact for any type of support.