Jun
01
The intersections of the queer community and healthcare highlight a history of disparity based on gender expression and sexual orientation that has been rooted in implicit bias, institutional barriers, and a lack of training in regard to specific community needs. This disparity manifests as decreased access to healthcare, increased prevalence of preventable medical conditions, and increased morbidity and mortality related to mental health when compared to the general population. This disparity becomes even more profound when compounded with belonging to other traditionally underserved communities. We as a society have made great strides in improving these conditions but there is still much work to be done.
Opportunities for improvement include but aren't limited to:
- Inclusive sexual health education
- Increased funding to public health resources
- Intentional health screening for queer patients that highlights disease prevention and mental health while maintaining a nonjudgmental atmosphere
- Improved employer benefits for same-sex partners
- Healthcare benefits that include access to gender-affirming care
- Legislation that makes discrimination based on gender expression and sexual orientation illegal on a federal level
- Inclusive and intentional education for healthcare providers about the history of disparity and the specific health needs of the LGBTQIA+ community
- Active recruitment of healthcare providers from the LGBTQIA+ community to help identify and bridge gaps in care that can lead to disparity
As this Pride month begins, now is the time to engage in conversations with our colleagues, teams, departments, and employers about what policies are in place to protect and serve members of the LGBTQIA+ community who are seeking care as well as those who are providing care. Together we can help to make our places of healing to be open and equitable to everyone under the rainbow.
