Dataset Information

Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity in Patients: How to Navigate Terminology in Patient Care.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

The purpose of this paper is to describe how health care providers can improve their practice environments to be more welcoming for patients on the spectrum of gender and sexual identity.

Methods

Literature searches were performed in WorldCat, PubMed, and nongovernmental organizations and Gallup polls. The years searched were from 2005 to 2018. Key words used included sexual orientation, transgender, and health care. The PubMed MeSH termed searched included gender identity and sexuality, both in combination with patient care.

Results

Terminology that patients use to identify their gender may vary. Understanding the terminology that patients use to self-identify is a first step to becoming more sensitive to the needs of gender and sexual minority patients. Minority patients on the spectrum of gender and sexual identity experience discrimination when accessing health care. Therefore, an accepting doctor-patient relationship especially benefits these patients. When communication competency and fluency is established, health care providers provide a more inclusive, accepting environment. Addressing patients based on their preferences and using inclusive forms and patient handouts are some recommendations that are made to create an open, patient-centered environment.

Conclusion

This article provides health care providers with terminology that facilitates communication and the healing environment for sexual and gender minority patients. Understanding and using this may create a more welcoming environment to all patients.

SUBMITTER: Lady SD

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8074683 | biostudies-literature |

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature

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Project description:BACKGROUND:The federal government and other organizations have recommended that healthcare institutions collect and document patient sexual orientation and gender identity (SO/GI) information in order to advance the understanding of the health of sexual and gender minority populations and to combat existing health disparities. Little is known, however, about provider perception of the clinical relevance of, or how they might use, patient SO/GI information in individual care. OBJECTIVE:To explore providers' perspectives on and experiences with collection of patient SO/GI information and how the knowledge of this information may impact clinical care. DESIGN:Qualitative study using in-depth individual interviews of healthcare providers. PARTICIPANTS:Twenty-five healthcare providers, including physicians, physician assistants, and nurse practitioners, from the fields of family medicine, internal medicine, gynecology, and urology within a single healthcare system in an east coast city. APPROACH:Interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim. Transcripts were coded and analyzed using principles of grounded theory and thematic analysis to identify themes emerging from the data. KEY RESULTS:Providers recognized the importance of collecting patient SO/GI information for understanding population-level public health concerns and disparities, as well as understanding and respecting the context of patients' lives. However, providers also emphasized the importance of knowing patients' sexual behaviors and physical anatomy for addressing health risk and preventive care needs-and noted the distinction between these characteristics and patient SO/GI. Providers cautioned that assumptions based on knowledge of patient SO/GI may unintentionally obscure accurate profiles of patient behavior and anatomy. CONCLUSIONS:Along with the potential benefits of routine collection of patient SO/GI, it is important that providers continue to inquire about patient behaviors and anatomy to inform individual risk and needs assessments. Findings from this study can inform the development of guidelines, trainings, and practices for incorporation of patient SO/GI along with existing assessment practices to improve individual and population health.

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