6 Tips for Queer Inclusive Healthcare: Building Trust and Improving Outcomes

6 Tips for Queer Inclusive Healthcare: Building Trust and Improving Outcomes

In today's healthcare landscape, fostering an inclusive environment is not just a matter of good practice—it's essential for achieving equitable health outcomes for all. For the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual, and all sexual and gender minority (LGBTQIA+) community, inclusive healthcare can significantly impact their well-being. As healthcare professionals, from doctors and nurses to health plans and pharmacists, understanding and implementing queer-inclusive practices can lead to improved patient trust, better health data, and ultimately, a healthier society.

Why is Queer Inclusive Healthcare So Critical?

The LGBTQIA+ community faces unique health disparities that are often rooted in societal stigma and discrimination, not inherent biological differences. As highlighted by GLAAD, external factors like lower incomes, lack of paid sick leave, and discrimination in accessing healthcare based on class, race, sexual orientation, and gender identity significantly affect a person's health.

Consider these impactful statistics:

• Discrimination is a lived reality: A 2018 Kaiser Family Foundation report noted that over half of lesbian, gay, and bisexual individuals reported facing providers who denied care, used harsh language, or blamed the patient’s sexual orientation or gender identity for an illness. Up to 39% of transgender people have experienced harassment or discrimination in healthcare settings, including outright denial of care (GLAAD).
• Lack of training: More than half of all medical schools lack any LGBTQ-focused health training beyond treating HIV. This knowledge gap directly impacts the quality of care received by LGBTQIA+ patients (GLAAD).
• Data deficits: One of the most significant impediments to understanding LGBTQIA+ health is the pervasive lack of data collection. This absence makes it challenging to identify and address specific health needs effectively (GLAAD).
• Targeted care limitations: Despite the need, only just over 200 LGBTQ-specific healthcare centers exist in the U.S., with 13 states having none at all, severely limiting access for those in rural areas (GLAAD).

These challenges underscore the urgent need for all healthcare providers to adopt inclusive practices.

Strategies for Creating a Welcoming and Affirming Environment

Creating an inclusive healthcare environment is a multifaceted endeavor that involves systemic changes and individual commitment. Here are actionable tips and tricks for healthcare practitioners and organizations:

1. Cultivate a Visibly Welcoming Environment

First impressions matter. Simple visual cues can signal to LGBTQIA+ patients that your practice is a safe and affirming space.

• Display Inclusive Materials: Feature brochures and educational materials that specifically address LGBTQIA+ health concerns.
• Post Non-Discrimination Statements: Clearly display a non-discrimination statement that includes protections based on sexual orientation and gender identity (AMA).
• Partner with LGBTQIA+ Organizations: Showcase posters or materials from reputable LGBTQIA+ or HIV/AIDS non-profit organizations.
• Consult Guidelines: Refer to resources like the "Guidelines of Care for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) Patients" by the Gay and Lesbian Medical Association (GLMA) for comprehensive advice on communication and practice standards (AMA). The National LGBTQIA+ Health Education Center's "Ten Strategies for Creating Inclusive Health Care Environments for LGBTQIA+ People" also offers valuable insights, including the importance of leadership engagement.

2. Revamp Patient Intake Forms and Data Collection

Accurate and inclusive patient data is foundational for providing personalized and effective care.

• Beyond Binary: Traditional intake forms often default to a male/female binary. Implement forms that allow patients to indicate their gender identity in addition to their sex assigned at birth.
• Preferred Name and Pronouns: Crucially, include fields for patients to specify their preferred name and pronouns. Using correct pronouns has been proven to help transgender and nonbinary people feel respected and reduce suicide risk (GLAAD).
• Comprehensive Information: Review and adapt your forms using models like those recommended by the American Medical Student Association. 
• Sexual Orientation: Include questions about sexual orientation to gather vital health data and tailor care. Remember, providers often mistakenly believe patients won't discuss these topics if asked (GLAAD).

3. Enhance Provider Education and Training

The lack of LGBTQIA+-focused health training is a significant barrier. Prioritize continuous education for all staff.

• Comprehensive LGBTQIA+ Health Training: Go beyond basic HIV education. Train staff on specific health disparities faced by LGBTQIA+ individuals, including mental health challenges, substance use, gender dysphoria, and specific cancer risks (GLAAD).
• Cultural Competency: Educate staff on the nuances of LGBTQIA+ identities, respectful language, and how to address sensitive topics with empathy and understanding.
• Listen to Experts: Utilize resources like the American Medical Association, GLAAD, American Medical Student Association, and more. These institutions have devoted numerous resources into inclusive healthcare practices and have the data to prove their recommendations. 

4. Employ Inclusive Language in All Communications

Language shapes perception and can either alienate or welcome patients.

• Gender-Inclusive Terms: Adopt gender-inclusive language in patient education materials, online content, and direct communication. For example, instead of "cervical cancer screening for women," consider "cervical cancer screening for people with a cervix" (GLAAD).
• Avoid Assumptions: Do not assume a patient's sexual orientation or gender identity based on their appearance or relationship status.
• Sexual Health Discussions: Be prepared to discuss sexual health comprehensively with all patients, recognizing that STI transmission risks can exist across all sexual orientations. For example, some STIs are passed between female partners at rates similar to straight women, yet may not be comprehensively tested (GLAAD).

5. List Your Practice in LGBTQIA+-Friendly Directories

Make it easy for LGBTQIA+ patients to find your practice.

• GLMA Provider Directory: List your practice in places like the GLMA Provider Directory, a free, publicly accessible listing of LGBTQIA+-friendly practices (AMA). Many LGBTQIA+ patients rely on such directories and word-of-mouth recommendations to find affirming care.
• Healthcare Equality Index (HEI): Participate in the Human Rights Campaign's Healthcare Equality Index, which measures facilities' equity and inclusion for LGBTQIA+ patients and employees. A high rating can boost your practice's visibility and reputation within the community (AMA).

6. Embrace At-Home Healthcare Solutions

For many in the LGBTQIA+ community, the fear of discrimination or outright refusal of care at traditional clinics can be a significant barrier to accessing essential health services (GLAAD). At-home healthcare solutions offer a vital pathway to accessible, judgment-free care, empowering individuals to manage their health in a safe and comfortable environment.

• Addressing Barriers to Access: At-home testing and remote consultations can remove the anxiety associated with in-person visits, particularly for those in rural areas with limited access to LGBTQIA+-specific care or for transgender individuals who fear mistreatment (GLAAD).
• Discreet and Confidential: Many LGBTQIA+ individuals prioritize discretion when seeking certain health services, such as STI testing or hormone level checks. At-home options provide a private alternative to clinic visits.

At Ash, we partner with health plans and digital health companies to provide comprehensive at-home testing solutions. This allows members to conveniently collect samples for a wide range of tests, including STI screenings, hormone level monitoring, and general wellness panels, all from the privacy and comfort of their own homes. By offering a seamless, end-to-end experience from kit delivery to results, Ash helps overcome geographic barriers and fears of discrimination, ensuring that all members, including those in the LGBTQIA+ community, can access the care they need without compromise.

Conclusion

Creating queer-inclusive healthcare environments is not merely a box to tick; it's a fundamental shift towards more equitable and effective care. By actively engaging leadership, revamping intake processes, investing in comprehensive training, using inclusive language, making your practice discoverable through relevant directories, and embracing innovative solutions like at-home healthcare, you can build trust, improve health outcomes, and contribute to a healthcare system that truly serves everyone. 

At Ash, we believe in empowering all individuals to navigate their health journey with confidence and dignity, and that begins with inclusive care. To learn more about Ash or to set up time to talk about potential partnerships, contact us here. 

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