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LeBlanc ME, Trinh MH, Zubizarreta D, Reisner SL. Healthcare stereotype threat, healthcare access, and health outcomes in a probability sample of U.S. transgender and gender diverse adults. Prev Med Rep 2024; 42:102734. [PMID: 38659996 PMCID: PMC11039338 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2024.102734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 04/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Health inequities among transgender and gender diverse (TGD) populations are well-documented and may be partially explained by the complex social power dynamics that lead to stigmatization. Healthcare Stereotype Threat (HCST) refers to the fear and threat of being perceived negatively based on identity-related stereotypes and may influence health and healthcare experiences. Few studies have investigated associations of HCST with healthcare access and health outcomes for TGD individuals. Methods We analyzed the U.S. Transgender Population Health Survey, a cross-sectional national probability sample of 274 TGD adults recruited April 2016-December 2018. Participants self-reported HCST through a 4-item scale. We estimated prevalence ratios (PR) for the association between HCST and binary healthcare access indicators and health outcomes using Poisson models with robust variance. Prevalence ratios (PR) were estimated using negative binomial models for the association between HCST and number of past-month poor physical and mental health days. Models adjusted for sociodemographics and medical gender affirmation. Results The mean age was 34.2 years; 30.9 % identified as transgender men, 37.8 % transgender women, and 31.3 % genderqueer/nonbinary. HCST threat was associated with increased prevalence of not having a personal doctor/healthcare provider (PR = 1.25; 95 %CI = 1.00-1.56) and reporting fair/poor general health vs good/very good/excellent health (PR = 1.92; 95 %CI = 1.37-2.70). Higher HCST was also associated with more frequent past-month poor physical (PR = 1.34; 95 %CI = 1.12-1.59) and mental (PR = 1.49; 95 %CI = 1.33-1.66) health days. Conclusion HCST may contribute to adverse healthcare access and health outcomes in TGD populations, though prospective studies are needed. Multilevel interventions are recommended to create safe, gender-affirming healthcare environments that mitigate HCST.
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Affiliation(s)
- Merrily E. LeBlanc
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, 1340 Boylston Street, Boston, MA 02215, United States
- Department of Sociology and Anthropology, Northeastern University, 900 Renaissance Park, 1135 Tremont St, Boston, MA 02120, United States
| | - Mai-Han Trinh
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, 677 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Dougie Zubizarreta
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, 677 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Sari L. Reisner
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, 1340 Boylston Street, Boston, MA 02215, United States
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Michigan School of Public Health, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, 677 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, United States
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, 677 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, United States
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2
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Benjamin DJ, Yazdanpanah O, Rezazadeh Kalebasty A. Overcoming barriers in cancer care for gender minorities. Nat Rev Urol 2024:10.1038/s41585-024-00894-8. [PMID: 38740971 DOI: 10.1038/s41585-024-00894-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Omid Yazdanpanah
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, UC Irvine Medical Center, Orange, CA, USA
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Smout SA, Yang EM, Mohottige D, Nonterah CW. A systematic review of psychosocial and sex-based contributors to gender disparities in the United States across the steps towards kidney transplantation. Transplant Rev (Orlando) 2024; 38:100858. [PMID: 38729062 DOI: 10.1016/j.trre.2024.100858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2024] [Revised: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Persistent findings suggest women and patients identified as "female" are less likely to receive a kidney transplant. Furthermore, the limited research on transplantation among transgender and gender diverse people suggests this population is susceptible to many of the same psychosocial and systemic barriers. OBJECTIVE This review sought to 1) highlight terminology used to elucidate gender disparities, 2) identify barriers present along the steps to transplantation, and 3) summarize contributors to gender disparities across the steps to transplantation. METHODS A systematic review of gender and sex disparities in the steps towards kidney transplantation was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines across four social science and public health databases from 2005 to 23. RESULTS The search yielded 1696 initial results, 33 of which met inclusion criteria. A majority of studies followed a retrospective cohort design (n = 22, 66.7%), inconsistently used gender and sex related terminology (n = 21, 63.6%), and reported significant findings for gender and sex disparities within the steps towards transplantation (n = 28, 84.8%). Gender disparities among the earlier steps were characterized by patient-provider communication and perception of medical suitability whereas disparities in the later steps were characterized by differential outcomes based on older age, an above average BMI, and Black racial identity. Findings for transgender patients pointed to issues computing eGFR and the need for culturally tailored care. DISCUSSION Providers should be encouraged to critically examine the diagnostic criteria used to determine transplant eligibility and adopt practices that can be culturally tailored to meet the needs of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shelby A Smout
- Department of Psychology, University of Richmond, 114 UR Drive, Richmond Virginia, USA.
| | - Emily M Yang
- Department of Psychology, University of Richmond, 114 UR Drive, Richmond Virginia, USA
| | - Dinushika Mohottige
- Institute of Health Equity Research, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1 Gustave L. Levy Place Box 1077, New York New York, USA
| | - Camilla W Nonterah
- Department of Psychology, University of Richmond, 114 UR Drive, Richmond Virginia, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, 501 N. 2nd Street Box 980309, Richmond Virginia, USA
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4
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Gómez-Ibáñez R, Leyva-Moral JM, Cruzado-Reyes A, Platero LR, Granel N, Watson CE. Describing Non-Binary People's Encounters with the Healthcare System: A Qualitative Study in Catalonia (Spain). ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2024; 53:1957-1967. [PMID: 38565788 PMCID: PMC11106161 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-024-02849-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 02/25/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Non-binary people face numerous stressors in their daily lives, including personal, interpersonal, and environmental. These stressors gain strength when such individuals access healthcare services, and discrimination and cisgenderism become the main barrier to obtaining gender-affirming healthcare. This study aimed to describe the experiences of non-binary people regarding the care and medical attention received in Catalonia (Spain). A qualitative phenomenological study was conducted with 21 non-binary people recruited using snowball sampling in 2022. Data were gathered through open-ended interviews and analyzed using thematic analysis. Two main themes were identified, which were further classified into two categories each: Theme 1-This is me composed of the categories, "My Name and My Pronouns" and "One's Chosen Gender," and Theme 2-I do not exist for the health system consisting of "Uneducated Health System in Sexual Health" and "Feeling Like an Outsider for Being Non-Binary." Non-binary people face multiple stressors when accessing the healthcare services that makes them feel invisible, vulnerable, and marginalized. Further widespread implementation of person-centered care is essential to promote the relationship between non-binary people and the healthcare system. In addition, further sexual health training is required for all health professionals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebeca Gómez-Ibáñez
- Nursing Department, Faculty of Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Avinguda de Can Domènech, 08193, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
- Grupo de Investigación Enfermera Sobre Vulnerabilidad y Salud, Nursing Department, Universitat Autónoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Juan M Leyva-Moral
- Nursing Department, Faculty of Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Avinguda de Can Domènech, 08193, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain.
- Grupo de Investigación Enfermera Sobre Vulnerabilidad y Salud, Nursing Department, Universitat Autónoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain.
| | | | - Lucas R Platero
- Department of Psychology, Rey Juan Carlos University, Madrid, Spain
| | - Nina Granel
- Nursing Department, Faculty of Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Avinguda de Can Domènech, 08193, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
- Grupo de Investigación Enfermera Sobre Vulnerabilidad y Salud, Nursing Department, Universitat Autónoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carolina E Watson
- Nursing Department, Faculty of Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Avinguda de Can Domènech, 08193, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
- Grupo de Investigación Enfermera Sobre Vulnerabilidad y Salud, Nursing Department, Universitat Autónoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
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5
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Berzansky I, Reynolds CA, Charlton BM. Breast and cervical cancer screenings across gender identity: results from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Cancer Causes Control 2024; 35:865-872. [PMID: 38280155 DOI: 10.1007/s10552-023-01847-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/29/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Although national medical organizations often neglect to include trans and gender diverse (TGD) people in their breast and cervical cancer screening recommendations, the World Profession Association of Transgender Health recommends that TGD people who are at risk for these cancers follow existing guidelines for cisgender women. Despite WPATH's recommendations, TGD people are less likely to get screened in large part due to discrimination. The COVID-19 pandemic has limited access to cancer screenings among cisgender people, but it is unknown how this has impacted TGD people. METHODS Using national survey data from the Behavioral Risk Factors Surveillance System (BRFSS), we examined differences in cervical and breast cancer screening noncompliance across gender identity at two time points: before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. RESULTS Screening noncompliance increased during the COVID-19 pandemic among cisgender and TGD people (e.g., transgender men, gender non-conforming people). Compared to cisgender women, transgender men and gender non-conforming respondents had higher odds of breast cancer screening noncompliance before and during COVID-19. Transgender men had lower odds of cervical cancer screening noncompliance than cisgender women before COVID-19, but higher odds during the pandemic. Gender non-conforming respondents also had lower odds of cervical cancer screening noncompliance during COVID-19 compared to cisgender women. CONCLUSIONS Screening noncompliance for breast and cervical cancer was more common among TGD people than cisgender women; while these disparities existed before the COVID-19 pandemic, they were exacerbated during the pandemic. Future work should move beyond descriptive statistics and elucidate underlying causes to inform interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isa Berzansky
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Colleen A Reynolds
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Medical School and Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Brittany M Charlton
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Medical School and Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute, Boston, MA, USA
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6
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Mason KL, Hood KB, Perrin PB, Belgrave FZ, Allison KW, Coston BE. Direct and vicarious exposure to healthcare discrimination and erasure among transgender and gender independent individuals: Testing the indirect effect of mistrust in healthcare on utilization behaviors. Soc Sci Med 2024; 348:116806. [PMID: 38574592 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2024.116806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
RATIONALE Direct exposure to gender identity-related discrimination and erasure among the transgender and gender independent (TGI) population are associated with healthcare underutilization, which may further exacerbate the health disparities that exist between this population and cisgender individuals in the United States (U.S.). Although the impacts of direct exposure to healthcare discrimination and erasure may have on TGI individuals are known, exposure to such harm vicariously (i.e., through observation or report) is underexplored. OBJECTIVE The present study examined the relationships among direct and vicarious gender identity-related healthcare discrimination and erasure exposure and past-year healthcare utilization. METHOD Gender identity-based mistrust in healthcare was also assessed, as a mechanism through which direct and vicarious gender identity-related healthcare discrimination and erasure predict healthcare utilization behaviors among a sample (N = 385) of TGI adults in the U.S., aged 18 to 71 recruited online. RESULTS Results indicated direct lifetime and vicarious healthcare discrimination and erasure exposure significantly predicted past-year healthcare underutilization when participants anticipated encountering gender identity-related healthcare discrimination. Mediational analyses indicated that higher levels of exposure to direct lifetime and vicarious healthcare discrimination and erasure were related to higher levels of mistrust in healthcare, through which past-year underutilization was significantly related. CONCLUSIONS These findings are vital to informing healthcare practice and policy initiatives aimed at ensuring the barriers that deleteriously influence the accessibility of healthcare among TGI individuals are ameliorated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyle L Mason
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, 806 W Franklin Street, Richmond, VA, 23284, USA.
| | - Kristina B Hood
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, 806 W Franklin Street, Richmond, VA, 23284, USA
| | - Paul B Perrin
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, 806 W Franklin Street, Richmond, VA, 23284, USA
| | - Faye Z Belgrave
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, 806 W Franklin Street, Richmond, VA, 23284, USA
| | - Kevin W Allison
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, 806 W Franklin Street, Richmond, VA, 23284, USA
| | - B Ethan Coston
- Department of Gender, Sexuality, & Women's Studies, Virginia Commonwealth University, 919 W Franklin Street, Richmond, VA, 23284, USA
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Valli JL, Shearer K, Zachry AH, Weisser-Pike O, Boughter JD. A Missing Piece of Occupational Therapy Education: Attitudes About Sex. Occup Ther Health Care 2024:1-16. [PMID: 38557162 DOI: 10.1080/07380577.2024.2325069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Following a lecture on sexual health and function, occupational therapy students were surveyed regarding their past sex education and their comfort level with the topic of sex. Students indicated a lack of sexual education received from parents/guardians and a prevalence of fear-based education from formal or informal sources. Results reflected a significant increase in students' perceived comfort level with the topic following the lecture from a provider trained and certified in sexual health. As sexuality falls within the domain of occupational therapy, these results suggest a need for comprehensive sex education taught to students by qualified instructors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L Valli
- Department of Urology, University of TN Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Katie Shearer
- School of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Anne H Zachry
- Department of Occupational Therapy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Orli Weisser-Pike
- Department of Occupational Therapy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - John D Boughter
- Department of Anatomy & Neurobiology, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
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8
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McMaughan DJ, Mulcahy A, McGehee A, Streed CG, Wallisch AM, Kurth NK, Hall JP. Gender Diversity, Disability, and Well-Being: Impact of Delayed and Foregone Care Because of COVID-19. LGBT Health 2024; 11:210-218. [PMID: 38060697 DOI: 10.1089/lgbt.2022.0385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose: This study explored the impact of delayed and foregone care due to COVID-19 on well-being among disabled and gender diverse adults. Methods: Using data from the 2021 National Survey on Health and Disability and logistic regression modeling we assessed the impact of delayed or foregone care due to COVID-19 on well-being among disabled people (n = 1638), with comparisons between cisgender (n = 1538) and gender diverse (n = 100) people with disabilities. We report odds ratios (OR) and confidence intervals (CI). Results: Disabled people reported high rates of delayed (79.36%) and foregone (67.83%) care and subsequent negative effects on well-being (72.07%). Gender diverse disabled people were over four times more likely to have delayed any care (OR 4.45, 95% CI 1.86-10.77) and three times more likely to have foregone any care (OR 3.14, 95% CI 1.71-5.79) due to COVID-19 compared to cisgender disabled people. They were three times more likely to report any negative impact on their health and well-being because of delayed and foregone care (OR 2.78, 95% CI 1.43-5.39). Conclusion: The COVID-19 pandemic affected the health care utilization of disabled people, resulting in high rates of delayed care, foregone care, and negative impacts on well-being. These effects were intensified at the intersection of disability and marginalized gender identity, with gender diverse disabled people having higher odds of delayed and foregone care and negative effects on well-being, including physical health, mental health, pain levels, and overall level of functioning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darcy Jones McMaughan
- School of Community Health Sciences, Counseling, and Counseling Psychology, College of Education and Human Sciences, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Abby Mulcahy
- Center to Improve Veteran Involvement in Care, Portland VA Healthcare System, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Amy McGehee
- Department of Human Development and Family Science, College of Education and Human Sciences, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Carl G Streed
- Section of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Anna Marie Wallisch
- Juniper Gardens Children's Project, University of Kansas, Kansas City, Kansas, USA
| | - Noelle K Kurth
- University of Kansas Institute for Health and Disability Policy Studies, Life Span Institute, Lawrence, Kansas, USA
| | - Jean P Hall
- University of Kansas Institute for Health and Disability Policy Studies, Life Span Institute, Lawrence, Kansas, USA
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Crawford J, Schultz A, Chernomas WM. Interpersonal Transphobia Within Nursing: A Critical Concept Exploration. ANS Adv Nurs Sci 2024; 47:136-152. [PMID: 37010837 DOI: 10.1097/ans.0000000000000491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2023]
Abstract
Transphobic perceptions negatively impact health care access and outcomes among transgender and gender-diverse people and challenge nurses' capacity to maintain ethical practice standards. The concept of transphobia has not been well defined in the literature or nursing. Using a critical realist lens, this concept exploration sought to define interpersonal transphobia through a review of purposefully selected literature. Attributes included discrimination and prejudice, while antecedents were cisnormativity, erasure, and stigma. Nurses can help reduce transphobia by seeking education and practicing gender-affirming care, including transgender people in research, and advocating for equitable policies and procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jess Crawford
- Author Affiliation College of Nursing, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
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10
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Trinh MH, Quint M, Coon D, Bhasin S, Tocci B, Reisner SL. Transgender Patients Report Lower Satisfaction with Care Received than Cisgender Patients Receiving Care in an Academic Medical Care System. LGBT Health 2024; 11:202-209. [PMID: 38100315 DOI: 10.1089/lgbt.2023.0034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Transgender and gender diverse (TGD) patients experience challenges in health care settings, including stigma, lack of culturally competent providers, and suboptimal gender-affirming care. However, differences in patient satisfaction between TGD patients compared with cisgender patients have been inadequately studied. This study aimed to assess such differences in patient satisfaction with care received in a large academic medical care system in Boston, Massachusetts. Methods: Routine patient satisfaction surveys were fielded from January to December 2021 and were summarized. Logistic regression models compared low net promoter scores (NPS; ≤6) between gender identity groups (cisgender women, transmasculine and nonbinary/genderqueer people assigned female at birth [AFAB], transfeminine and nonbinary/genderqueer people assigned male at birth) relative to cisgender men, adjusting for age, race, ethnicity, education, inpatient/outpatient service delivery, and distance from medical center. Results: Of 94,810 patients, 246 (0.3%) were TGD and 94,549 (99.7%) were cisgender. The mean age was 58.3 years (standard deviation = 16.6). Of the total sample, 17.0% of patients were people of color, 6.6% were Hispanic/Latinx, 48.6% were college graduates, and 2.6% had received inpatient care. In general, patient satisfaction with health care received was lower for TGD patients than for cisgender patients (7.3% vs. 4.5% reporting low NPS; adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.14; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.70-1.85). Transmasculine and nonbinary/genderqueer patients AFAB had elevated odds of low NPS compared with cisgender men (8.8% vs. 3.6%; aOR = 1.71; 95% CI = 1.02-2.89). Conclusion: Future research is warranted to better understand factors driving lower ratings among TGD patients. Health care quality improvement efforts are needed to address gender identity inequities in care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mai-Han Trinh
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Meg Quint
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Devin Coon
- Center for Transgender Health, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Shalender Bhasin
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Center for Transgender Health, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Medicine, and Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Benjamin Tocci
- Office of Patient Experience, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Sari L Reisner
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Center for Transgender Health, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Medicine, and Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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11
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Coffin T, Brower E, Adekar S. Contraception Requirements in Clinical Research Consent Forms: Assessing and Supporting Gender Inclusive Practices. J Empir Res Hum Res Ethics 2024:15562646241238301. [PMID: 38462948 DOI: 10.1177/15562646241238301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
Gender-diverse individuals are underserved in clinical research settings. Reliance on gendered language throughout the consent process for clinical research contributes to the marginalization of these populations. The research objective was to assess use of gender-inclusive language used to describe the contraception requirement in consent forms. We categorized and analyzed contraception language in 289 clinical trial consent forms using a deductive and summative content analysis approach. We found that 79% (n = 227) of consent forms contained gender-inclusive language, 80% (n = 231) used terms that fell under the biological sex language, and 91% (n = 264) used gendered language. No consent forms used exclusively gender-inclusive language and the majority 63% (n = 182) featuring a combination of all three language types. There were many consent forms which would have been entirely gender-inclusive language if section headings with references to biological-sex-specific contraceptives were excluded, suggesting that gender-inclusive language may be attainable with minor revisions.
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12
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Gordon AR, Roberts S, Silverstein S, Rose KL, Lopez E, Calzo JP. What is needed for eating disorder prevention for transgender and gender diverse young adults? Findings from asynchronous online focus groups. Body Image 2024; 48:101667. [PMID: 38101273 PMCID: PMC10922438 DOI: 10.1016/j.bodyim.2023.101667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Transgender and gender diverse (TGD) young adults face higher risk of eating disorder (ED) symptoms than cisgender peers. Evidence-based ED prevention programs exist but must be adapted to meet the needs of diverse TGD populations. We conducted eight asynchronous online focus groups in 2019 with 66 ethnically and gender diverse TGD young adults (18-30 years) living in the United States. Participants were recruited online; groups took place over four consecutive days. We conducted inductive thematic analysis of participant responses to three prompts about ED prevention needs and advice for program developers. Findings fell into three domains. In Domain 1: Developing Program Content, themes included (1.1) need to address multiple dimensions of gender; (1.2) intersectional representation matters; (1.3) limitations of ED research; (1.4) being responsive to trauma. Domain 2: Program Delivery Considerations, included preferences for (2.1) group composition, (2.2) intervention modality, and (2.3) program leadership. Domain 3: Cultivating Affirming Spaces included themes addressing the need for programs to (3.1) create judgment-free environments and (3.2) center lived experience. TGD young adults in this study described a range of needs and recommendations for ED prevention content and delivery, with relevance to clinicians, program designers, and ED prevention advocates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allegra R Gordon
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA; Division of Adolescent/Young Adult Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Savannah Roberts
- Department of Psychology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | | | - Kelsey L Rose
- Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
| | | | - Jerel P Calzo
- Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; School of Public Health, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, USA; Institute for Behavioral and Community Health, San Diego State University Research Foundation, San Diego, CA, USA
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13
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Seiger KW, McNamara B, Berrahou IK. Gynecologic Care for Sexual and Gender Minority Patients. Obstet Gynecol Clin North Am 2024; 51:17-41. [PMID: 38267126 DOI: 10.1016/j.ogc.2023.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
Sexual and gender minority (SGM) people, including lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer individuals, are a diverse population with a wide spectrum of gynecologic needs. Institutionalized cisheteronormativity, stigmatization, lack of provider training, and fear of discrimination contribute to health disparities in this patient population. In this article, we review key topics in the gynecologic care of SGM patients and provide strategies to enable gynecologists to provide SGM people with equitable and inclusive full spectrum reproductive health care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyra W Seiger
- Yale University School of Medicine, 367 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Blair McNamara
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Iman K Berrahou
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, PO Box 208063, Suite 302 FMB, New Haven, CT 06520-806, USA.
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Pomarico-Denino V. Gender-affirming care for the adolescent patient. Nurse Pract 2024; 49:11-18. [PMID: 38386467 DOI: 10.1097/01.npr.0000000000000147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Over the past decade, the number of children and adolescents who identify as transgender and/or gender diverse has increased. It is essential for clinicians to have the knowledge and resources to effectively care for these patients, identify associated risks (such as sexually transmitted infections, unplanned pregnancy, depression, anxiety, and increased suicide risk) as well as to understand hormone therapy to help patients achieve desired expression of the gender with which they identify.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Pomarico-Denino
- Vanessa Pomarico-Denino is a family NP and lead clinician for diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging at the Connecticut Medical Group in Conn
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15
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Deb B, Porter K, van Cleeff A, Reardon LC, Cook S. Emphasizing Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Data Capture for Improved Cardiovascular Care of the LGBTQ+ Population. JAMA Cardiol 2024; 9:295-302. [PMID: 38265768 DOI: 10.1001/jamacardio.2023.5267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
Importance The rising self-identifying lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) population makes understanding the unique health care needs of sexual and gender minoritized patients an urgent one. The interaction between minority stress and cardiovascular disease has been well described among underrepresented minoritized populations. The underrepresentation of minoritized populations in clinical research is partly responsible for worse cardiovascular outcomes in these populations. The absence of sexual orientation and gender identity and expression (SOGIE) data makes it difficult to understand the cardiovascular health of LGBTQ+ adults, thereby widening health care disparities in this population. Advancing cardiovascular health equity for LGBTQ+ patients must begin with careful and accurate SOGIE data collection. Observations Current SOGIE data capture remains inadequate despite federal mandates. Challenges in data collection include political and regulatory discrimination, patient/practitioner hesitancy, lack of supportive guidance on SOGIE data collection, improper terminology, regulatory inertia, and inadequate and often incorrect integration of SOGIE data into electronic health records (EHRs). Additional challenges include grouping participants as "others" for statistical significance. The inclusion of SOGIE data has demonstrated an impact in other fields like cancer survivorship and surgery. The same needs to be done for cardiology. Conclusions and Relevance Potential solutions for improving much-needed SOGIE data collection include (1) implementing LGBTQ+ inclusive policies, (2) integrating SOGIE data into the EHR, (3) educating health care professionals on the relevance of SOGIE to patient-centered care, and (4) creating a diverse cardiovascular workforce. These steps can substantially enhance the ability to collect SOGIE data to address LGBTQ+ cardiovascular health care disparities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brototo Deb
- Department of Medicine, Georgetown University-WHC, Washington, DC
| | - Kadijah Porter
- Department of Medicine, University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Hospital, Miami, Florida
| | - Ashlan van Cleeff
- Sanger Heart & Vascular Institute, Atrium Health, Charlotte, North Carolina
| | - Leigh C Reardon
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Ahmanson/UCLA Adult Congenital Heart Disease Center and UCLA Children's Heart Center, UCLA, Los Angeles, California
| | - Stephen Cook
- Indiana Heart Physicians, Franciscan Physician Network, Indianapolis, Indiana
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Jordan SP. Compelling care: A grounded theory of transmasculine self-defense and collective protection at the clinic. Soc Sci Med 2024; 345:116638. [PMID: 38364718 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2024.116638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Abstract
Despite formidable inequities in health care systems, transgender people are accessing clinical services in record numbers and gaining recognition as a patient population. This article examines how transgender people are negotiating their care and, in so doing, challenging patterns of marginalization and exclusion. Interviews with twenty-six transmasculine adults were collected and analyzed in the context of a community-led initiative foregrounding low-income people and people of color in Los Angeles County using a constructivist grounded theory approach. Participants gained agency in clinical settings by compelling care, a grounded theory that explains how patients contest medical authority and shift power through everyday acts to defend themselves and future patients. Histories of mistreatment and unequal social power drive patients to engage with health care providers judiciously and with a sense of social responsibility. In tracing seemingly decentralized acts of self-defense (e.g., vetting providers, disrupting gender norms, directing treatment), the study shows how patients rely on community resources and marshal collective protection. The theory recasts patients as constitutive actors in a changing landscape of care and as integral to, and one of many fronts of, collective struggle. In turn, the study lends theoretical insights to anti-racist understandings of medical mistrust andoffers a depathologized framework toward the development of community-building health equity interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sid P Jordan
- Portland State University, School of Social Work, 1800 SW 6th Ave, Portland, OR, 97201, USA.
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17
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Lechien NM, Dempsey SA. Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Plus Curriculum in Physician Assistants/Associate Education: A Call to Action. J Physician Assist Educ 2024:01367895-990000000-00132. [PMID: 38377303 DOI: 10.1097/jpa.0000000000000576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Healthcare avoidance of the LGBTQIA+ community is growing, in part, due to a knowledge gap in medical learners on LGBTQIA+-related topics. Barriers of including LGBTQIA+ topics in medical education include perceived lack of applicability and preceptor knowledge gaps. Advocating for a weave-like integration approach, topics such as personal biases, hormone replacement therapy, STI prevention, and health inequities should be included. It is imperative that PA educators use this call to action to avoid perpetuating the cultural incompetence of new graduate PAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan M Lechien
- Nathan M. Lechien, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, is a clinical education director, clinical assistant professor at Indiana University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, Indiana
- Shea A. Dempsey, DMSc, MBA, PA-C, EM-CAQ, is a director doctor of medical science, assistant professor, Shenandoah University, Winchester, Virginia
| | - Shea A Dempsey
- Nathan M. Lechien, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, is a clinical education director, clinical assistant professor at Indiana University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, Indiana
- Shea A. Dempsey, DMSc, MBA, PA-C, EM-CAQ, is a director doctor of medical science, assistant professor, Shenandoah University, Winchester, Virginia
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18
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Holt NR, Botelho E, Wolford-Clevenger C, Clark KA. Previous mental health care and help-seeking experiences: Perspectives from sexual and gender minority survivors of near-fatal suicide attempts. Psychol Serv 2024; 21:24-33. [PMID: 36757956 PMCID: PMC10409874 DOI: 10.1037/ser0000745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
Sexual and gender minority (SGM) populations face heightened risk of suicide compared to their heterosexual and cisgender counterparts, and a previous suicide attempt is among the strongest predictors of suicide mortality. Despite this increased risk, limited research has explored mental health help-seeking behavior and previous mental health care experiences of SGM individuals among the highest risk for suicide-individuals with a recent, near-fatal suicide attempt. This study presents thematic analysis results of interviews with 22 SGM individuals who reported at least one near-fatal suicide attempt in the past 18 months. Identified themes were (a) factors that affect help-seeking for SGM individuals with a recent, near-fatal suicide attempt, including previous mental health care experiences, support systems, and structural barriers and facilitators; (b) hospitalization is not a one-size fits all solution; and (c) recommendations for improving care for this population. Findings demonstrate that anti-SGM stigma may magnify existing barriers to mental health care across all socioecological levels. Notably, participants cited a fear of loss of autonomy from inpatient hospitalization and previous discriminatory experiences when seeking mental health care as hampering help-seeking. Given increased risk for suicide mortality, this patient population is a necessary stakeholder in suicide prevention and intervention development and policy discussions affecting mental health care. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie R Holt
- VA Quality Scholars Program, Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Center, VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System
| | - Elliott Botelho
- Department of Psychology, University of Alabama at Birmingham
| | | | - Kirsty A Clark
- Department of Medicine, Health, and Society, Vanderbilt University
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19
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Thomas C, Dwyer A, Batchelor J, Van Niekerk L. A qualitative exploration of gynaecological healthcare experiences of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer people assigned female at birth. Aust N Z J Obstet Gynaecol 2024; 64:55-62. [PMID: 37496286 DOI: 10.1111/ajo.13741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, asexual/aromantic (LGBTQA+) people, assigned female at birth (AFAB), experience disproportionately poorer gynaecological healthcare outcomes compared to their cisgender, heterosexual peers. The barriers to gynaecological care remain poorly understood. In a step toward bridging this gap, the current study explored the lived gynaecological healthcare experiences of Australian LGBTQA+ AFAB people and the barriers they experience in accessing care. MATERIALS AND METHODS Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 22 LGBTQA+ AFAB people. An inductive thematic qualitative design was used to explore the lived experiences and identify themes associated with the reported experiences. RESULTS Thematic analysis identified seven themes related to experiences in accessing gynaecological healthcare, including discrimination, fear, perceived provider or cultural incompetency, accessibility, and gender identity. Several sub-themes were also identified such as refusal of care, microaggression, misgendering, and patient as educator. CONCLUSIONS Participants suggested that barriers to care could be alleviated by the integration of LGBTQA+ specific healthcare training into the university-level medical curriculum and professional development programs that address cultural competency and inclusive healthcare. These preliminary findings inform the necessity for the development of evidence-based practice guidelines that specifically address the unique and diverse needs of the LGBTQA+ AFAB population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cleo Thomas
- School of Psychological Sciences, College of Health & Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Angela Dwyer
- School of Social Sciences, College of Arts, Law, & Education, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Jack Batchelor
- School of Social Sciences, College of Arts, Law, & Education, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Leesa Van Niekerk
- School of Psychological Sciences, College of Health & Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
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20
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Eom YJ, Lee H, Choo S, Kim R, Yi H, Kim R, Kim SS. Situational Avoidance and Its Association with Mental Health Among Transgender Adults in South Korea: A Nationwide Cohort Study. LGBT Health 2024; 11:122-130. [PMID: 37831924 DOI: 10.1089/lgbt.2023.0060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose: In fear of discrimination or unwanted disclosure of their transgender identity, transgender and nonbinary (TGNB) people may commonly avoid daily activities. We assessed the prevalence of situational avoidance among TGNB people and examined its associations with mental health outcomes. Methods: We analyzed data from a longitudinal survey conducted at baseline (2020) and follow-up (2021) among 268 TGNB people in South Korea. Situational avoidance due to transgender identity within the past 12 months was assessed based on 12 kinds of daily activities (e.g., public bathroom use, job applications, and hospital visits). Past-week depressive symptoms and past 2-week anxiety symptoms were measured with the Center for Epidemiologic Studies-Depression Scale and General Anxiety Disorder Scale, respectively. Results: Of 268 participants, 135 (50.4%) have ever avoided daily activities. The most frequently reported situational avoidance was public bathroom use (32.1%), followed by job applications (24.3%) and hospital visits (12.3%). After adjusting for confounders including baseline depressive symptoms and experience of anti-transgender discrimination, participants with any situational avoidance experience were 1.30 times (95% confidence intervals [CI] = 1.01-1.69) more likely to have anxiety symptoms compared with those without situational avoidance experience. In particular, participants who avoided three or more kinds of daily activities were 1.40 times (95% CI = 1.02-1.93) more likely to have anxiety symptoms than those without any experience of situational avoidance. No association was observed with depressive symptoms. Conclusion: Multilateral interventions including anti-discrimination law enactment are necessary to reduce transphobia and provide support for TGNB people in Korea, thus reducing their fear of participating in daily activities and promoting their mental well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun-Jung Eom
- Interdisciplinary Program in Precision Public Health, Department of Public Health Sciences, Graduate School of Korea University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Hyemin Lee
- Jeju Institute of Public Health & Health Policy, Jeju, South Korea
| | - Sungsub Choo
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Graduate School of Korea University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Ranyeong Kim
- Interdisciplinary Program in Precision Public Health, Department of Public Health Sciences, Graduate School of Korea University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Horim Yi
- Solidarity for LGBT Human Rights of Korea, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Rockli Kim
- Interdisciplinary Program in Precision Public Health, Department of Public Health Sciences, Graduate School of Korea University, Seoul, South Korea
- Division of Health Policy and Management, College of Health Science, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Seung-Sup Kim
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Graduate School of Public Health, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
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21
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Decker H, Combs RM, Noonan EJ, Black C, Weingartner LA. LGBTQ+ Microaggressions in Health Care: Piloting an Observation Framework in a Standardized Patient Assessment. JOURNAL OF HOMOSEXUALITY 2024; 71:528-544. [PMID: 36190747 DOI: 10.1080/00918369.2022.2122367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Microaggressions are subtle derogatory behaviors that unintentionally communicate hostility toward marginalized social groups. This article describes the preliminarily validation of a framework for observing LGBTQ+ microaggressions in health care, which can lead to distrust and disengagement from the healthcare system. Coders used the framework to observe microaggressions in video-recorded clinical-skills assessments with medical students who elicited health histories from standardized patients. Microaggression classifications were reviewed to determine construct reliability and the presence/absence among eight framework categories. Among 177 encounters with sexual and gender minority standardized patients, heteronormative/cisnormative language and assumptions occurred in the largest proportion of encounters (85.3%). Only identity-based referrals decreased significantly after a clinical skills intervention (20.0% to 4.9%, p = .01). These outcomes show that LGBTQ+ healthcare microaggressions are pervasive and will likely require nuanced training to address them. This groundwork can also be used to develop scales for patients and observers to identify microaggressions and assess perceived impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hallie Decker
- Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences, University of Louisville School of Public Health and Information Sciences, Louisville, Kentucky, USA
| | - Ryan M Combs
- Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences, University of Louisville School of Public Health and Information Sciences, Louisville, Kentucky, USA
| | - Emily J Noonan
- Undergraduate Medical Education, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, Kentucky, USA
| | - Caison Black
- Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences, University of Louisville School of Public Health and Information Sciences, Louisville, Kentucky, USA
| | - Laura A Weingartner
- Undergraduate Medical Education, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, Kentucky, USA
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22
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Jennings SJ, Mikos KA, Caruso Brown AE, Osborne K, Livesay SL. Evaluation of Nursing Coursework for Biased Content. Nurs Educ Perspect 2024; 45:53-54. [PMID: 37125679 DOI: 10.1097/01.nep.0000000000001082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Bias-free content in nursing education prepares students to provide equitable care. The process of assessing content promotes the dismantling of systemic bias in health care, advancing social justice, diversity, equity, and inclusion. Unfortunately, there are no published studies to guide the evaluation of nursing curricula for the presence of bias. This innovative project aimed to identify bias in a course and develop a structure to guide the wider evaluation of the curriculum to identify and remove biased content. A modified version of the Upstate Bias Checklist was applied to a 15-week, three-semester hour, prelicensure, graduate-level nursing course.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah J Jennings
- About the Authors Sarah J. Jennings, DNP, MPA, RN, is an assistant professor, School of Nursing, Northern Michigan University, Marquette, Michigan. Kathleen A. Mikos, DNP, RN, is an assistant professor, College of Nursing, Rush University, Chicago, Illinois. Amy E. Caruso Brown, MD, MSc, MSCS, is interim chair of bioethics and humanities and an associate professor of bioethics and humanities and pediatrics, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York. Kathryn Osborne, PhD, RN, is an associate professor, College of Nursing, Rush University. Sarah L. Livesay, DNP, APRN, is assistant dean of specialty education, College of Nursing, Rush University. For more information, contact Dr. Jennings at
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23
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Greaves N, Emmanuel MK, Harvey A, Harewood H, Gromer J, Majumder MAA, Campbell MH. Medical Educators' Perceptions and Experiences of Transgender Curriculum in Barbados. Transgend Health 2023; 8:550-557. [PMID: 38130985 PMCID: PMC10732172 DOI: 10.1089/trgh.2022.0027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose This study explored medical educators' understanding of the term transgender and their attitudes and perspectives regarding (1) health system responsiveness to transgender needs and (2) transgender curriculum in medical education. Methods The study employed purposive sampling of medical educators responsible for design and delivery of curriculum. Fifteen of 18 eligible educators participated in Zoom focus groups (FG1 n=7, FG2 n=8). FGs averaged 93 min and were recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using a qualitative interpretivist methodology with deductive and inductive coding assisted by NVivo 12 Pro software. Results Educators were knowledgeable about the term transgender and the physical and psychosocial needs of transgender people. Participants viewed transgender care as a significant emerging health area. However, infrequent personal or clinical contact, coupled with constraints in human and other resources, resulted in the perception that transgender content as a stand-alone component of curriculum is difficult to justify. Participants articulated a need for broad-based diversity content, including disabilities, primarily at the undergraduate level. Educators saw transgender health as relevant for undergraduate-level psychiatry and postgraduate medical specializations. Analysis and discussion framed participant perspectives in the context of stigma, discrimination, and medicolegal and health systems that impede access to health care for transgender people. Conclusion Participants demonstrated knowledge of transgender and transgender health care needs. Areas for improvements in health care responsiveness were identified, particularly related to structural stigma and discrimination. Although participants expressed interest in including transgender health in the curriculum, this would require pragmatic optimization of teaching resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie Greaves
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies—Cave Hill, Bridgetown, Barbados
| | - Maisha K. Emmanuel
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies—Cave Hill, Bridgetown, Barbados
| | - Arianne Harvey
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies—Cave Hill, Bridgetown, Barbados
| | - Heather Harewood
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies—Cave Hill, Bridgetown, Barbados
| | - Jill Gromer
- College of Social Work, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA
| | | | - Michael H. Campbell
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies—Cave Hill, Bridgetown, Barbados
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24
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Lenne E, Sun CJ, Klawetter S. An Examination of Power in a Triadic Model of Parent-Child-Pediatrician Relationships Related to Early Childhood Gender Development. JOURNAL OF FAMILY THEORY & REVIEW 2023; 15:662-676. [PMID: 38351982 PMCID: PMC10861221 DOI: 10.1111/jftr.12527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
In this paper, the authors introduce the Triadic Model of Pediatric Care, an innovative conceptual framework for pediatric practice with transgender and gender diverse children. The Triadic Model of Pediatric Care consists of three experts-pediatricians, primary caregiver(s), and children-who each possess unique insights, knowledge, and decision-making power. This model guides pediatricians to provide gender-affirming care that acknowledges children as experts of their own experience and worthy of bodily autonomy, while also working to ensure primary caregiver(s) have the information and support necessary to provide a safe and nurturing developmental environment for their child. The authors provide a recommendation for how the Triadic Model of Pediatric Care might be applied in a pediatric healthcare setting and conclude with a summary of the model's implications, limitations, and future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eline Lenne
- School of Social Work, Portland State University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Christina J. Sun
- College of Nursing, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
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25
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Thomas SD, King R, Murphy M, Dempsey M. Demographic factors associated with healthcare avoidance and delay in the transgender population: Findings from a systematic review. DIALOGUES IN HEALTH 2023; 3:100159. [PMID: 38515802 PMCID: PMC10954025 DOI: 10.1016/j.dialog.2023.100159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
Purpose Healthcare avoidance and delay (HAD) in the transgender population has been well documented, and research has explored a range of associated factors that help to identify those most at risk of HAD. This review addresses a gap in the research by synthesizing research exploring associations between HAD and demographic factors. Methods A systematic search of literature published at any time up to December 2021 was conducted, using five databases (EBSCO, EMBASE, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science) and manually searching reference lists of included studies. After exclusion of duplicates, 608 unique records were subjected to double screening. Papers reporting statistical analyses of HAD in association with any sociodemographic variables were included in this review. Papers consisted of nineteen cross-sectional studies. Narrative synthesis was used to address findings. Results Nineteen studies met inclusion criteria, exploring HAD in association with a wide range of demographic factors, including sex and gender, social transition factors, age, race and ethnicity, socioeconomic factors, veteran status, education, sexuality, relationship status, citizenship, place of residence, and state demographics. Findings identified intra-community demographic risk factors, with consistent evidence for increased HAD among transmasculine, and younger, participants. Lower income and higher educational attainment were also associated with increased HAD, while remaining areas had weak or little evidence for association with HAD. Conclusion This review expands knowledge in this area by highlighting demographic factors associated with increased HAD in research literature, and exploring how these may be further investigated to address substantial gaps in the body of research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siobhan D. Thomas
- School of Applied Psychology, University College Cork, Cork Enterprise Centre, North Mall, Cork, Ireland
| | - Robert King
- School of Applied Psychology, University College Cork, Cork Enterprise Centre, North Mall, Cork, Ireland
| | - Mike Murphy
- School of Applied Psychology, University College Cork, Cork Enterprise Centre, North Mall, Cork, Ireland
| | - Maria Dempsey
- School of Applied Psychology, University College Cork, Cork Enterprise Centre, North Mall, Cork, Ireland
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26
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Kim R, Choo S, Lee H, Eom YJ, Yi H, Kim R, Kim SS. Does discrimination prevent transgender and gender diverse people from seeking healthcare?: A nationwide cohort study in South Korea. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF TRANSGENDER HEALTH 2023; 25:283-294. [PMID: 38681498 PMCID: PMC11044721 DOI: 10.1080/26895269.2023.2215750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
Introduction Using Asia's first nationwide cohort dataset, this study aimed to assess the prevalence of anti-transgender discrimination and healthcare avoidance and delay (HAD) and examine their associations among transgender and gender diverse (TGD) adults in South Korea. Methods We analyzed a two-wave (2020-2021) longitudinal dataset of 190 Korean TGD adults. Anti-transgender discrimination were classified accordingly: experienced at (1) neither wave, (2) baseline (2020) only, (3) follow-up (2021) only, and (4) both waves. We also asked about HAD in the past 12 months at follow-up for both transition-related and non-transition-related healthcare services. Multivariate modified Poisson regression was used to examine the associations between anti-transgender discrimination and HAD. Results Of 190 participants, 102 (53.7%) experienced anti-transgender discrimination at both waves, and 130 (68.4%) reported HAD at follow-up. Compared to those without any experiences of anti-transgender discrimination, those who experienced it in both waves had a 1.78-times (95% CI: 1.21-2.63) higher prevalence of non-transition-related HAD, but not among those who experienced it in either wave. In contrast, anti-transgender discrimination was not associated with transition-related HAD. Conclusion In order to enhance healthcare access for transgender and gender diverse (TGD) individuals, it is necessary to implement interventions, such as anti-discrimination laws, that protect them from discrimination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ranyeong Kim
- Interdisciplinary Program in Precision Public Health, Department of Public Health Sciences, Graduate School of Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Graduate School of Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sungsub Choo
- Interdisciplinary Program in Precision Public Health, Department of Public Health Sciences, Graduate School of Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Graduate School of Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyemin Lee
- Healthcare Policy Team, Jeju Institute of Public Health & Health Policy, Jeju, Republic of Korea
| | - Yun-Jung Eom
- Interdisciplinary Program in Precision Public Health, Department of Public Health Sciences, Graduate School of Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Graduate School of Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Horim Yi
- Solidarity for LGBT Human Rights of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Rockli Kim
- Interdisciplinary Program in Precision Public Health, Department of Public Health Sciences, Graduate School of Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Graduate School of Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Harvard Center for Population and Development Studies, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Seung-Sup Kim
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Graduate School of Public Health, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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27
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Tordoff DM, Fernandez A, Perry NL, Heberling WB, Minalga B, Khosropour CM, Glick SN, Barbee LA, Duerr A. A Quantitative Intersectionality Analysis of HIV/STI Prevention and Healthcare Access Among Transgender and Nonbinary People. Epidemiology 2023; 34:827-837. [PMID: 37756272 PMCID: PMC10539029 DOI: 10.1097/ede.0000000000001669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transgender and nonbinary people experience substantial barriers to accessing healthcare, including prevention of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (HIV/STI), due to structural inequities. We examined differences in insurance, HIV/STI prevalence, testing, and preexposure prophylaxis use among transgender and nonbinary people living in Washington State by race and ethnicity and gender. METHODS We pooled data from five 2019-2021 Washington State HIV/STI surveillance data sources to obtain a large and diverse sample of 1648 transgender and nonbinary participants. We calculated the risk difference (RD) for each outcome and used Poisson regression to estimate a surrogate measure of additive interaction-attributable proportion (AP)-that measures the proportion of the excess prevalence of the outcome observed at the intersection of gendered and racialized experience, beyond that expected from gender or race and ethnicity alone. RESULTS Participants reported overall high levels of poverty (29% incomes <$15,000 and 7% unstable housing). Certain groups, especially racial/ethnic minority transgender women, were disproportionately impacted by HIV/STIs (RDs from 20% to 43% and APs from 50% to 85%) and less likely to currently have insurance (RDs from 25% to 39% and APs from 74% to 93%) than that expected based on gendered or racialized experience alone. CONCLUSIONS Our findings highlight the heterogeneity in insurance access, HIV/STI positivity, and prevention utilization within transgender communities. We observed that a large proportion of increased HIV/STI prevalence among racial/ethnic minority transgender women was attributable to the intersection of gender and race and ethnicity. Our findings highlight the importance of trans-inclusive models of HIV/STI prevention that address multilevel barriers rooted in cissexism and structural racism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana M. Tordoff
- University of Washington, Department of Epidemiology, Seattle, WA
| | | | - Nicole Lynn Perry
- Lavender Rights Project, Washington Black Trans Task Force, Seattle, WA
| | | | | | | | - Sara N. Glick
- University of Washington, School of Medicine, Seattle, WA
- Public Health-Seattle & King County HIV/STD Program, Seattle, WA
| | - Lindley A. Barbee
- University of Washington, School of Medicine, Seattle, WA
- Public Health-Seattle & King County HIV/STD Program, Seattle, WA
| | - Ann Duerr
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
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Derbyshire DW, Keay T. Nurses' implicit and explicit attitudes towards transgender people and the need for trans-affirming care. Heliyon 2023; 9:e20762. [PMID: 38106668 PMCID: PMC10722320 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e20762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Revised: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The primary objective of this study is to investigate the implicit and explicit attitudes of healthcare professionals - in particular nurses - towards transgender people. This is especially important in light of recent calls for improved trans-affirming care provision by healthcare professionals to generate quality healthcare access and outcomes for transgender people. Methods We use publicly available data from the transgender version of the Implicit Association Test from 2020 to 2022. We focus on differences between three subsets of participant: (1) non-healthcare professionals (N = 177,810), (2) non-nursing healthcare professionals (N = 22,443) and (3) nursing healthcare professionals (N = 11,996). We present the results of parametric statistical tests (t-tests) and an ordinary least squares regression, to analyse the robustness of our results when controlling for a host of sociodemographic characteristics. Results We find that non-healthcare professionals have significantly lower implicit bias towards transgender people compared to healthcare professionals. Further, within healthcare professionals, we find nurses have significantly higher implicit bias towards transgender people compared to non-nurses. We show how implicit bias and explicit attitudes are highly correlated. Further, we provide evidence that healthcare professionals - but in particular nurses - conflate sex and gender identity. Conclusion Whilst nurses continue to have higher levels of implicit and explicit bias towards transgender people there remains a need to globally establish additional enhanced trans-affirming care training provision for nursing and medical students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel W. Derbyshire
- Research Fellow in Public Health Economics, European Centre for Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter, UK
| | - Tamsin Keay
- Assistant Professor in Nursing, Midwifery and Health Professions, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Coventry University, UK
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Ghabrial MA, Scheim AI, Chih C, Santos H, Adams NJ, Bauer GR. Change in Finances, Peer Access, and Mental Health Among Trans and Nonbinary People During the COVID-19 Pandemic. LGBT Health 2023; 10:595-607. [PMID: 37347954 PMCID: PMC10712362 DOI: 10.1089/lgbt.2022.0296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Due to structural transphobia, trans and nonbinary (TNB) individuals were particularly vulnerable to the negative effects of social isolation and financial instability resulting from COVID-19. The present study examined the effect of change in finances and access to TNB peer gatherings on anxiety and depression during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: Participants were 18 years and older (mean = 30) and completed prepandemic baseline (Fall 2019) and pandemic follow-up (Fall 2020) surveys. Multivariable regressions examined associations between mental health and change in (1) finances and (2) access to TNB peer gatherings (in person or online). Results: Of 780 participants, 50% reported that the COVID-19 pandemic had a negative impact on personal income and 58.3% reported negative impact on access to TNB peer gatherings. Depression and anxiety symptoms increased from prepandemic to follow-up, and most participants were above measurement cutoffs for clinical levels at both time points. Change in finances and access to TNB peer gatherings interacted with prepandemic depression scores to predict depression symptoms during the COVID-19 pandemic. For participants with high prepandemic depression scores, financial stability predicted pandemic depression scores comparable to that predicted by negative financial change. No interaction was found between these variables when predicting anxiety symptoms during the COVID-19 pandemic. Conclusion: Findings underscore the influence of inequality and prepandemic mental health when considering the impact of COVID-19 on wellbeing. Results suggest need for multifaceted programs and services, including financial support and meaningful TNB community engagement, to address barriers to health equity posed by systematic gender oppression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica A. Ghabrial
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ayden I. Scheim
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Caiden Chih
- Mechanical and Industrial Engineering and University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Heather Santos
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Noah James Adams
- Ontario Institute for Studies in Education, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Center for Applied Transgender Studies, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Transgender Professional Association for Transgender Health, Canada
| | - Greta R. Bauer
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Health, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
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Belfort EL, Brown B. Individual Affirming Care: Psychological and Social Approaches to Trans and Gender-Diverse Youth. Child Adolesc Psychiatr Clin N Am 2023; 32:761-773. [PMID: 37739633 DOI: 10.1016/j.chc.2023.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/24/2023]
Abstract
Clinicians working with youth encounter transgender and gender-diverse youth and play a role in supporting the psychological and social well-being of youth and their families. Mental health clinicians start with a thorough assessment, development of a biopsychosocial formulation of the youth, and a collaborative treatment plan. Determining if the youth meets diagnostic criteria for Gender Dysphoria and identifying comorbid mental health diagnoses inform recommendations for psychiatric medication management, individual and/or family therapy interventions, and/or referrals to medical or surgical colleagues. Supporting development of a coherent identity narrative and healthy interpersonal attachments with others is an important goal of treatment interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin L Belfort
- Maine Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, 66 Bramhall Street, Portland, ME 04102, USA.
| | - Brandy Brown
- Maine Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, The Gender Clinic, 1577 Congress Street, 2nd Floor, Portland, ME 04102, USA
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Ros AM, Coyne CA, Clarke S. Paved with good intentions: How our systems intersect to create health disparities for multiply marginalized youth. Suicide Life Threat Behav 2023. [PMID: 37718961 DOI: 10.1111/sltb.13001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Revised: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Youth who hold multiply marginalized identities often experience barriers in accessing care following psychiatric hospitalization METHODOLOGY: The following commentary piece shares a case amalgamation from a multidisciplinary gender clinic in a tertiary care children's hospital which illustrates the myriad of ways that our current mental healthcare systems fail to connect youth efficiently and effectively to the evidence-based, culturally relevant, and affirming care that they require, particularly youth experiencing overlapping systems of discrimination and disadvantage. CONCLUSIONS This piece highlights the inaccessibility of dialectical behavior therapy for multiply marginalized youth, and outlines suggestions for improving access to high-quality care for minoritized youth engaging in suicidal behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Maria Ros
- Potocsnak Family Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Claire A Coyne
- Potocsnak Family Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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Porat AT, Ellwood M, Rodina M, Dianat S. Erythrocytosis in Gender-Affirming Care With Testosterone. Ann Fam Med 2023; 21:403-407. [PMID: 37748907 PMCID: PMC10519768 DOI: 10.1370/afm.3018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2022] [Revised: 03/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) is safe overall, with few adverse effects. One potential effect from using testosterone for GAHT is an increase in hemoglobin and/or hematocrit, known as secondary erythrocytosis. Current guidelines recommend monitoring hemoglobin or hematocrit routinely in the first year, some as frequently as every 3 months, which can create barriers to care. Our study explored the incidence of erythrocytosis in the first 20 months of testosterone therapy among people receiving gender-affirming care. METHODS This is a descriptive fixed cohort study of hematocrit and hemoglobin data from the charts of 282 people taking testosterone for GAHT. RESULTS During the first 20 months of testosterone therapy, the cumulative incidence of hematocrit >50.4% was 12.6%, hematocrit >52% was 1.0%, and hematocrit >54% was 0.6%. All people were taking injectable testosterone cypionate, with a median dose of 100 mg weekly. CONCLUSION Severe erythrocytosis (hematocrit >54%) is a rare outcome of gender-affirming testosterone therapy. Clinical recommendations should reconsider the need for routine frequent erythrocytosis screening within the first year of testosterone therapy for patients who prefer to minimize laboratory draws.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Marisa Rodina
- Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
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Kamal K, Keuroghlian AS, Potter J. Promoting Sexual and Gender Minority Health Clinical Skills Training for All Medical Students. ACADEMIC MEDICINE : JOURNAL OF THE ASSOCIATION OF AMERICAN MEDICAL COLLEGES 2023; 98:987-993. [PMID: 37043757 DOI: 10.1097/acm.0000000000005240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Despite societal, legal, and cultural improvements in their well-being, sexual and gender minority (SGM) people in the United States still face substantial physical and mental health disparities that are exacerbated by physician stigma and lack of training. Although there have been efforts at medical schools nationwide to address these disparities and interweave SGM health education into existing preclerkship courses, opportunities to practice related clinical skills during the clerkship years remain largely elective. Furthermore, national survey data from 2020 indicate that SGM Americans continue to delay or avoid medical care because of physician discrimination. By providing predominantly opt-in opportunities for hands-on SGM health clinical training, educators risk perpetuating existing structural inequities and widening health disparities. In this article, the authors advocate for required SGM health clinical training for all undergraduate medical students, regardless of intended specialty. They highlight 3 types of elective SGM health clinical training models currently in use at medical schools across the country, including student-run clinics, advanced electives, and longitudinal scholarly concentrations. Using these examples, the authors then outline ways that educators can interweave required SGM health clinical training into undergraduate medical education, including with the recruitment and retention of SGM faculty, staff, and students; required SGM standardized patient experiences; the integration of SGM clinical opportunities throughout the core clerkships; and partnerships with SGM health centers. Using these methods, medical schools can mobilize passionate students, faculty, and leaders to both counter the bigotry and hate faced by SGM populations and develop innovative strategies to improve SGM patient health outcomes and expand opportunities for SGM health scholarship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanika Kamal
- K. Kamal is a medical student, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Alex S Keuroghlian
- A.S. Keuroghlian is director, Division of Education and Training, The Fenway Institute, director, Division of Public and Community Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, and codirector, Harvard Medical School Sexual and Gender Minority Health Equity Initiative, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jennifer Potter
- J. Potter is cochair, The Fenway Institute, program lead, Harvard Medical School-Fenway Health LGBTQIA+ Health Fellowship Program, codirector, Harvard Medical School Sexual and Gender Minority Health Equity Initiative, and internist, Division of General Medicine, Beth Israel Lahey Health, Boston, Massachusetts
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Warwar S, Beach LB, Jordan SW. Breast cancer disparities among sexual and gender minority populations. Transl Cancer Res 2023; 12:2219-2223. [PMID: 37701114 PMCID: PMC10493785 DOI: 10.21037/tcr-23-623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Warwar
- Department of Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Lauren B. Beach
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Sumanas W. Jordan
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
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Clark KD, Lunn MR, Bosse JD, Sevelius JM, Dawson-Rose C, Weiss SJ, Lubensky ME, Obedin-Maliver J, Flentje A. Societal stigma and mistreatment in healthcare among gender minority people: a cross-sectional study. Int J Equity Health 2023; 22:162. [PMID: 37620832 PMCID: PMC10463432 DOI: 10.1186/s12939-023-01975-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gender minority (GM; individuals whose gender is not aligned with that traditionally associated with the sex that was assigned to them at birth) people have widely reported mistreatment in healthcare settings. Mistreatment is enacted by individuals within society who hold stigmatizing beliefs. However, the relationship between healthcare mistreatment and societal stigma (i.e., the degree to which society disapproves of GM people) is unclear and not measured consistently. METHODS We analyzed data from 2,031 GM participants in The Population Research in Identity and Disparities for Equality (PRIDE) Study's 2019 Annual Questionnaire to determine whether societal stigma was associated with participants' past-year reports of mistreatment (defined as denial of healthcare services and/or lower quality care) in medical or mental healthcare settings. We created a proxy measure of societal stigma by incorporating variables validated in existing literature. Participants reported whether they had experienced mistreatment in medical and mental health settings independently. RESULTS Healthcare denial and/or lower quality care during the past year was reported by 18.8% of our sample for medical settings and 12.5% for mental health settings. We found no associations between the societal stigma variables and past-year reports of healthcare denial and/or lower quality care in medical or mental healthcare settings. CONCLUSIONS Although a high proportion of GM people reported past-year healthcare mistreatment in both medical and mental health settings, mistreatment had no relationship with societal stigma. Factors other than societal stigma may be more important predictors of healthcare mistreatment, such as healthcare workers' knowledge of and attitudes toward GM people. However, other measures of societal stigma, or different types of mistreatment, may show stronger associations. Identifying key factors that contribute to mistreatment can serve as targets for intervention in communities and healthcare settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen D Clark
- Department of Medical Sciences, Psychiatry, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Mitchell R Lunn
- The PRIDE Study/PRIDEnet, Stanford University School of Medicine, 300 Pasteur Drive, Stanford, CA, USA
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, 300 Pasteur Drive, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Stanford University School of Medicine, 300 Pasteur Drive, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Jordon D Bosse
- School of Nursing, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, 360 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jae M Sevelius
- Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, 513 Parnassus Avenue, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Center of Excellence for Transgender Health, Department of Medicine, University of California, 513 Parnassus Avenue, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Carol Dawson-Rose
- Department of Community Health Systems, School of Nursing, University of California San Francisco, 2 Koret Way, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Sandra J Weiss
- Department of Community Health Systems, UCSF Depression Center, University of California, San Francisco, 2 Koret Way, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Micah E Lubensky
- The PRIDE Study/PRIDEnet, Stanford University School of Medicine, 300 Pasteur Drive, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Community Health Systems, School of Nursing, University of California San Francisco, 2 Koret Way, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Juno Obedin-Maliver
- The PRIDE Study/PRIDEnet, Stanford University School of Medicine, 300 Pasteur Drive, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Stanford University School of Medicine, 300 Pasteur Drive, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University School of Medicine, 300 Pasteur Drive, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Annesa Flentje
- The PRIDE Study/PRIDEnet, Stanford University School of Medicine, 300 Pasteur Drive, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Community Health Systems, School of Nursing, University of California San Francisco, 2 Koret Way, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Alliance Health Project, Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, 1930 Market Street, San Francisco, CA, USA
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Folayan MO, Yakusik A, Enemo A, Sunday A, Muhammad A, Nyako HY, Abdullah RM, Okiwu H, Lamontagne E. Socioeconomic inequality, health inequity and well-being of transgender people during the COVID-19 pandemic in Nigeria. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:1539. [PMID: 37573293 PMCID: PMC10422710 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-16482-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND We aimed to explore socioeconomic inequality, health inequity, and the well-being of transgender people during the COVID-19 crisis in Nigeria. METHODS Between June and December 2021, a cross-sectional survey was conducted collaboratively with community-based organisations in Nigeria. Participants living with or at risk of HIV were recruited voluntarily, online and face-to-face, using a combination of venue-based and snowball sampling. We assessed the association between gender identity (transgender and vulnerable cisgender women), and (i) socioeconomic inequality measured with socioeconomic status, social status, economic vulnerability, macrosocial vulnerability; (ii) health inequity measured with self-assessment of health, recency of HIV test, access to HIV and sexual and reproductive health services, gender-affirming care, financial and non-financial barriers to accessing health services; and (iii) well-being, measured with gender-based violence, mental health, psychoeconomic preferences. We used multivariable logistic regressions and controlled for interactions and confounders. RESULTS There were 4072 participants; 62% were under 30, and 47% reported living with HIV. One in ten (11.9%; n = 485) was transgender, and 56.5% reported living with HIV. Compared to vulnerable cisgender women, the results showed significantly higher odds (aOR:3.80) of disruption in accessing HIV services in transgender participants; gender-based violence (aOR:2.63); severe (aOR:2.28) symptoms of anxiety and depression. Among the barriers to accessing health and HIV services, transgender had three-time higher odds of reporting additional non-official fees compared to vulnerable cisgender women. The disclosure of their gender identity or sexual orientation was the most important non-financial barrier to accessing health services (aOR:3.16). Transgender participants faced higher housing insecurity (aOR: 1.35) and lower odds of using drugs (aOR:0.48). Importantly, they are more likely to have performed a recent HIV test and less likely to not know their HIV status (aOR:0.38) compared to vulnerable cisgender women. CONCLUSIONS Socioeconomic inequality, health and well-being inequity in transgender people appear to be exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic in Nigeria. Interventions are necessary to mitigate socioeconomic challenges, address structural inequality, and ensure equitable access to health services to meet the Sustainable Development Goals for transgender people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morenike Oluwatoyin Folayan
- Department of Child Dental Health, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria.
- Nigeria Institute of Medical Research, Yaba, Lagos State, Nigeria.
| | - Anna Yakusik
- Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS, CH, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Amaka Enemo
- Nigeria Sex Workers Association, Kubwa, Nigeria
| | - Aaron Sunday
- African Network of Adolescent and Young Persons Development, Barnawa, Nigeria
| | - Amira Muhammad
- Northern Nigerian Transgender Initiative, Abuja, Nigeria
| | | | | | | | - Erik Lamontagne
- Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS, CH, Geneva, Switzerland
- School of Economics, Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France
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Pflugeisen CM, Boomgaarden A, Denaro AA, Konicek D, Robinson E. Patient Empowerment Among Transgender and Gender Diverse Youth. LGBT Health 2023; 10:429-438. [PMID: 37126404 PMCID: PMC10468556 DOI: 10.1089/lgbt.2022.0276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Patient empowerment is becoming increasingly important as health care moves toward more collaborative models of care. The goal of this study was to evaluate and characterize patient empowerment in a sample of transgender/gender-diverse/nonbinary (TGDNB) youth aged 14-24 who have had at least one conversation with a medical health care provider about gender-affirming care. Methods: We adapted a health care empowerment scale for use with TGDNB young people and collected patient empowerment and sociodemographic data among TGDNB youth in the United States over an 8-week period in the spring of 2022. Overall and domain-specific empowerment (including knowledge and understanding, control, identity, decision-making, and supporting others) were assessed on a four-point scale from a low of 1 to a high of 4. Results: A total of 177 youth completed the survey. Mean age was 18.4 ± 3.0 years, the sample was 39.5% gender-diverse/nonbinary, 16.4% transfemme, 44.1% transmasc, and 81.9% White. Average empowerment was 0.22 points higher in youth with supportive caregivers than those without (99% confidence interval [CI] 0.05-0.38, p < 0.001) and 0.20 points higher in youth who sought gender-affirming mental health support (99% CI 0.04-0.36, p = 0.001). Caregiver support increased youths' sense of control over their health/health care (estimated increase 0.29, 99% CI 0.09-0.50, p < 0.001), and mental health support increased youths' decision-making agency by 0.30 points (99% CI 0.06-0.53, p = 0.001). Conclusions: This is the first study to assess patient empowerment in TGDNB youth. Several sociodemographic factors were significantly associated with overall and domain-level empowerment. Further work in this area, both longitudinal and in larger samples, is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anna Boomgaarden
- Pediatric Gender Health Clinic, Mary Bridge Children's Hospital and Health Center, Tacoma, Washington, USA
| | - Aytch A. Denaro
- Pediatric Gender Health Clinic, Mary Bridge Children's Hospital and Health Center, Tacoma, Washington, USA
| | - Danielle Konicek
- Pediatric Gender Health Clinic, Mary Bridge Children's Hospital and Health Center, Tacoma, Washington, USA
- School of Social Work & Criminal Justice, University of Washington, Tacoma, Washington, USA
| | - Emily Robinson
- Pediatric Gender Health Clinic, Mary Bridge Children's Hospital and Health Center, Tacoma, Washington, USA
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Brooks BD, Job SA, Kaniuka AR, Kolb R, Unda Charvel P, Araújo F. Healthcare discrimination and treatment adherence among sexual and gender minority individuals living with chronic illness: the mediating effects of anticipated discrimination and depressive symptoms. Psychol Health 2023:1-17. [PMID: 37339152 DOI: 10.1080/08870446.2023.2220008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Revised: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/22/2023]
Abstract
Background: Sexual and gender minority (SGM) individuals are at increased risk for an array of chronic illness due to minority stress. Up to 70% of SGM individuals report healthcare discrimination, which may cause additional challenges for SGM people living with chronic illness including avoiding necessary healthcare. The extant literature highlights how healthcare discrimination is associated with depressive symptoms and treatment nonadherence. However, there is limited evidence on the underlying mechanisms between healthcare discrimination and treatment adherence among SGM people living with chronic illness.Methods: Among a sample of SGM individuals living with chronic illness (n = 149) recruited from social media, the current study examined the mediating roles of anticipated discrimination and depressive symptoms on the relation between healthcare discrimination and treatment adherence in a serial mediation model.Results: We found that healthcare discrimination was associated with greater anticipated discrimination, increased depressive symptoms, and, in turn, poorer treatment adherence. Conclusion: These findings highlight the association between minority stress and both depressive symptoms and treatment adherence among SGM individuals living with chronic illness. Addressing institutional discrimination and the consequences of minority stress may improve treatment adherence among SGM individuals living with chronic illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Byron D Brooks
- Department of Psychology, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Sarah A Job
- Department of Population Health Sciences, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, USA
| | - Andréa R Kaniuka
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC, USA
| | - Rachel Kolb
- Department of Psychology, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | - Fabiana Araújo
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
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Pham A, Camfield C, Curtis A, Sumerwell C, Ahrens KR, Hodax J. A Mixed Methods Study on Healthcare Transition From Pediatric to Adult Care in Transgender and Gender-Diverse Adolescents and Young Adults. J Adolesc Health 2023:S1054-139X(23)00213-6. [PMID: 37294254 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2023.04.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Revised: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study assessed healthcare transition (HCT) readiness and barriers to HCT among transgender and gender diverse (TGD) adolescent and young adults (AYA) using mixed-method techniques. METHODS Fifty TGD AYA participants were surveyed using a validated transition readiness assessment questionnaire and open-ended questions examining challenges, influential factors, and health implications of HCT. Open-ended responses underwent qualitative analysis to identify consistent themes and response frequency. RESULTS Participants felt most prepared for communicating with providers and completing medical forms and least prepared for navigating insurance/financial systems. Half of the participants anticipated worsening mental health during HCT, with additional concerns related to transfer logistics and transphobia/discrimination. Participants identified intrinsic skills and external factors (such as social relationships) that would contribute to a more successful HCT. DISCUSSION TGD AYA face unique challenges in navigating the transition to adult health care, particularly related to concerns of discrimination and negative impacts on mental health, but these challenges may be mitigated by certain intrinsic resilience factors as well as targeted support from personal networks and pediatric providers.
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Affiliation(s)
- An Pham
- Seattle Children's Hospital, Division of Adolescent Medicine, Seattle, Washington.
| | | | - Amy Curtis
- Seattle Children's Hospital, Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Seattle Washington
| | - Catherine Sumerwell
- Seattle Children's Hospital, Division of Adolescent Medicine, Seattle, Washington
| | - Kym R Ahrens
- Seattle Children's Hospital, Division of Adolescent Medicine, Seattle, Washington; Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, Washington
| | - Juanita Hodax
- Seattle Children's Hospital, Division of Endocrinology, Seattle Washington
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40
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Reckhow J, Kula H, Babayev S. Fertility preservation options for transgender and nonbinary individuals. Ther Adv Endocrinol Metab 2023; 14:20420188231178371. [PMID: 37323161 PMCID: PMC10265329 DOI: 10.1177/20420188231178371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Transgender and nonbinary individuals are historically underserved by healthcare systems. A crucial area for improvement is fertility preservation counseling and service delivery, as gender-affirming hormone therapy and gender-affirming surgery may negatively affect future fertility. The methods available for fertility preservation depend on the patient's pubertal status and utilization of gender-affirming therapies, and counseling and delivery of these services are complex and require a multidisciplinary approach. Further research is needed to identify pertinent stakeholders in managing the care of these patients, as well as to better understand the optimal frameworks for delivering integrated and comprehensive care to this patient population. Fertility preservation is an active and exciting area of scientific discovery and offers a wealth of opportunities to improve the care of transgender and nonbinary individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hakan Kula
- Obstetrics & Gynecology, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Samir Babayev
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
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41
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Gray SS, Sizemore KM, Rendina HJ. Coping Strategies as a Moderator for the Association between Intimate Partner Violence and Depression and Anxiety Symptoms among Transgender Women. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:5927. [PMID: 37297531 PMCID: PMC10253188 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20115927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Evidence suggests that intimate partner violence (IPV) is associated with negative mental health outcomes. There is currently limited research on the impact of IPV on the outcomes of mental health for transgender women. The current study aimed to examine the relationship between intimate partner violence, coping skills, depression, and anxiety in a sample of transgender women. Hierarchical regression analyses were conducted examining the relationship of IPV and depression and anxiety symptoms, where coping skills moderate this relationship. The results suggest that those with experiences of IPV are more likely to have symptoms of depression and anxiety. For individuals with no experiences of IPV and low depression, high levels of emotional processing coping and acceptance coping buffered this relationship. For individuals with more experiences of IPV and more depressive symptoms, coping skills did not show to buffer this relationship. These same coping skills did not show evidence for buffering anxiety symptoms for transgender women with low or high levels of IPV. The results, implications, and limitations of this study and suggestions for further research are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon S. Gray
- Institute for Health, Healthcare Policy, and Aging Research, Rutgers University, 112 Paterson St., New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA;
| | - Kayla Marie Sizemore
- Institute for Health, Healthcare Policy, and Aging Research, Rutgers University, 112 Paterson St., New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA;
- Department of Psychiatry, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers University, 125 Paterson Street, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
| | - H. Jonathon Rendina
- Department of Epidemiology, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, 950 New Hampshire Ave, NW, Washington, DC 20052, USA;
- Whitman-Walker Institute, 1377 R St., NW, Suite 200, Washington, DC 20009, USA
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42
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Ackley SF, Zimmerman SC, Flatt JD, Riley AR, Sevelius J, Duchowny KA. Discordance in chromosomal and self-reported sex in the UK Biobank: Implications for transgender- and intersex-inclusive data collection. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2218700120. [PMID: 37094118 PMCID: PMC10161036 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2218700120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2023] Open
Abstract
There is growing need to distinguish between sex and gender. While sex is assigned at birth, gender is socially constructed and may not correspond to one's assigned sex. However, in most research studies, sex or gender is assessed in isolation or the terms are used interchangeably, which has implications for research accuracy and inclusivity. We used data from the UK Biobank to quantify the prevalence of disagreement between chromosomal and self-reported sex and identify potential reasons for discordance. Among approximately 200 individuals with sex discordance, 71% of discordances were potentially explained by the presence of intersex traits or transgender identity. The findings indicate that when describing sex- and/or gender-specific differences in health, researchers may be limited in their ability to draw conclusions regarding specific sex and/or gender health information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah F. Ackley
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, CA94158
| | - Scott C. Zimmerman
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, CA94158
| | - Jason D. Flatt
- Department of Social and Behavioral Science, School of Public Health, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, NV89119
| | - Alicia R. Riley
- Department of Sociology, University of California, Santa Cruz, CA95064
| | - Jae Sevelius
- Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, University of California, San Francisco, CA94158
- Center of Excellence for Transgender Health, University of California, San Francisco, CA94158
| | - Kate A. Duchowny
- Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI48104
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43
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Lett E, Ivory JM, Roberson ML. Envisioning trans-inclusive and trans-specific cancer care. Nat Rev Clin Oncol 2023; 20:351-352. [PMID: 37046009 DOI: 10.1038/s41571-023-00764-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/14/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Elle Lett
- Center for Applied Transgender Studies, Chicago, IL, USA
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Joannie M Ivory
- Division of Hematology & Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Mya L Roberson
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
- Department of Health Policy and Management, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
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44
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Kitzie V, Smithwick J, Blanco C, Green MG, Covington-Kolb S. Co-creation of a training for community health workers to enhance skills in serving LGBTQIA+ communities. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1046563. [PMID: 37006528 PMCID: PMC10060788 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1046563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
This paper describes creating and implementing a 30-h LGBTQIA+ specialty training for community health workers (CHWs). The training was co-developed by CHW training facilitators (themselves CHWs), researchers with expertise in LGBTQIA+ populations and health information, and a cohort of 11 LGBTQIA+ CHWs who theater tested and piloted the course. The research and training team collected cohort feedback through focus groups and an evaluative survey. Findings stress the importance of a curriculum designed to elicit lived experiences and informed by a pedagogical framework centered on achieving LGBTQIA+ visibilities. This training is a vital tool for CHWs to foster cultural humility for LGBTQIA+ populations and identify opportunities to support their health promotion, especially considering their limited and sometimes absent access to affirming and preventative healthcare. Future directions include revising the training content based on cohort feedback and adapting it to other contexts, such as cultural humility training for medical and nursing professionals and staff.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Kitzie
- School of Information Science, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, United States
- *Correspondence: Vanessa Kitzie
| | - Julie Smithwick
- Center for Community Health Alignment, University of South Carolina Arnold School of Public Health, Columbia, SC, United States
| | - Carmen Blanco
- Center for Community Health Alignment, University of South Carolina Arnold School of Public Health, Columbia, SC, United States
| | - M. Greg Green
- Center for Community Health Alignment, University of South Carolina Arnold School of Public Health, Columbia, SC, United States
| | - Sarah Covington-Kolb
- Center for Community Health Alignment, University of South Carolina Arnold School of Public Health, Columbia, SC, United States
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45
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Crawford J, Schultz ASH, Linton J, Kramer M, Ristock J. Gender-affirming care in undergraduate nursing education: a scoping review protocol. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e070576. [PMID: 36918246 PMCID: PMC10016310 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-070576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) people face a multitude of barriers to safe, accessible healthcare. One way to overcome access inequities is through the provision of gender-affirming care. Gender-affirming care is culturally safe and engaged care that values TGD identities and is focused on depathologising TGD people. Additionally, gender-affirming care encompasses awareness and support of TGD individuals as unique beings, including supporting gender-affirming medical goals for those who are interested. The discipline of nursing is well situated to advocate for gender-affirming care, however, receives little undergraduate education in the subject. Undergraduate schools of nursing (including faculty and curriculum) are in a crucial position to implement gender-affirming care, though how they have done this is not widely known. Our scoping review aims to understand how Canadian and US undergraduate schools of nursing teach and integrate gender-affirming education. METHODS AND ANALYSIS Our scoping review will follow the six stages by Arksey and O'Malley and the advancements by Levac et al, reported on as per the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for scoping reviews. The review will be completed in 2023, with the database searches carried out in spring 2023, followed by screening and analysis. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethics approval is not required for this protocol. To aid in knowledge translation, a visual representation of the findings will be created. Results from the final scoping review will be published in a peer-reviewed journal, promoted on social media to schools of nursing, and presented at conferences and seminars. PROTOCOL REGISTRATION NUMBER Open Science Framework (https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/Q68BD).
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Affiliation(s)
- Jess Crawford
- College of Nursing, University of Manitoba Faculty of Health Sciences, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Annette S H Schultz
- College of Nursing, University of Manitoba Faculty of Health Sciences, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Janice Linton
- Neil John Maclean Health Sciences Library, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Marnie Kramer
- College of Nursing, University of Manitoba Faculty of Health Sciences, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Janice Ristock
- Women and Gender Studies, University of Manitoba Faculty of Arts, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
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Workman TE, Goulet JL, Brandt CA, Lindemann L, Skanderson M, Warren AR, Eleazer JR, Kronk C, Gordon KS, Pratt-Chapman M, Zeng-Treitler Q. Temporal and Geographic Patterns of Documentation of Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Keywords in Clinical Notes. Med Care 2023; 61:130-136. [PMID: 36511399 PMCID: PMC9931630 DOI: 10.1097/mlr.0000000000001803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Disclosure of sexual orientation and gender identity correlates with better outcomes, yet data may not be available in structured fields in electronic health record data. To gain greater insight into the care of sexual and gender-diverse patients in the Veterans Health Administration (VHA), we examined the documentation patterns of sexual orientation and gender identity through extraction and analyses of data contained in unstructured electronic health record clinical notes. METHODS Salient terms were identified through authoritative vocabularies, the research team's expertise, and frequencies, and the use of consistency in VHA clinical notes. Term frequencies were extracted from VHA clinical notes recorded from 2000 to 2018. Temporal analyses assessed usage changes in normalized frequencies as compared with nonclinical use, relative growth rates, and geographic variations. RESULTS Over time most terms increased in use, similar to Google ngram data, especially after the repeal of the "Don't Ask Don't Tell" military policy in 2010. For most terms, the usage adoption consistency also increased by the study's end. Aggregated use of all terms increased throughout the United States. CONCLUSION Term usage trends may provide a view of evolving care in a temporal continuum of changing policy. These findings may be useful for policies and interventions geared toward sexual and gender-diverse individuals. Despite the lack of structured data, the documentation of sexual orientation and gender identity terms is increasing in clinical notes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Terri Elizabeth Workman
- Biomedical Informatics Center, The George Washington University, Washington, DC
- Washington DC VA Medical Center, Washington, DC
| | - Joseph L. Goulet
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT
| | - Cynthia A. Brandt
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT
| | - Luke Lindemann
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT
- Department of Psychology, Yale University, New Haven, CT
| | | | | | - Jacob R. Eleazer
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System PRIME Center, West Haven, CT
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT
| | | | - Kirsha S. Gordon
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT
- Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT
| | | | - Qing Zeng-Treitler
- Biomedical Informatics Center, The George Washington University, Washington, DC
- Washington DC VA Medical Center, Washington, DC
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Barriers and Challenges in Caring for Transgender People: Implications for Clinical Practice and the Experience From a Specialized Center. J Dr Nurs Pract 2023; 16:44-53. [PMID: 36918281 DOI: 10.1891/jdnp-2021-0022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/16/2023]
Abstract
Background: Transgender people often experience social exclusion and transphobic attitudes, which have an adverse impact on their socioeconomic life and health status. Within health services, -discriminatory practices and mistreatment derive from the lack of cultural competence by -healthcare providers. Objective: This article features existing barriers in the provision of healthcare to transgender populations and suggests approaches to manage the relevant challenges. Methods: A thorough review of the literature was performed, and the operation of a specialized unit wass presented. Results: Health professionals are often unskilled or unwilling to offer transgender care, while most healthcare service institutions do not offer specialized treatments. Incomplete health insurance coverage and shortages of personal income impede trans individuals' access to healthcare. Certain practices and policies are needed for scientifically and culturally competent services. Conclusions: The social vulnerability and the unique health needs of transgender persons urgently call for accessible and effective care for gender minority individuals. The integration of gender identity issues into continuous medical and nursing education is a key component of transgender-friendly care. Implications for Nursing: The integration of diversity as a core value in health services, the ability of health personnel to deliver transgender care, and the provision of insurance coverage solely based on medical needs are necessary steps to achieve social justice in healthcare.
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48
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Wallisch A, Boyd BA, Hall JP, Kurth NK, Streed Jr CG, Mulcahy A, McMaughan DJ, Batza K. Health Care Disparities Among Autistic LGBTQ+ People. AUTISM IN ADULTHOOD 2023. [DOI: 10.1089/aut.2022.0006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Wallisch
- Juniper Gardens Children's Project, University of Kansas, Kansas City, Kansas, USA
| | - Brian A. Boyd
- School of Education, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Jean P. Hall
- Institute for Health and Disability Policy Studies, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, USA
| | - Noelle K. Kurth
- Institute for Health and Disability Policy Studies, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, USA
| | - Carl G. Streed Jr
- Section of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Center for Transgender Medicine and Surgery, Boston Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Abigail Mulcahy
- Center to Improve Veteran Involvement in Care, Portland VA Healthcare System, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Darcy Jones McMaughan
- School of Community Health Sciences, Counseling, and Counseling Psychology, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Katie Batza
- Women, Gender and Sexuality Studies, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, USA
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49
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Boonyapisomparn N, Manojai N, Srikummoon P, Bunyatisai W, Traisathit P, Homkham N. Healthcare discrimination and factors associated with gender-affirming healthcare avoidance by transgender women and transgender men in Thailand: findings from a cross-sectional online-survey study. Int J Equity Health 2023; 22:31. [PMID: 36782169 PMCID: PMC9926841 DOI: 10.1186/s12939-023-01843-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although discriminatory experiences of transgender people seeking healthcare services have been well-documented in several studies, differentiating those experiences based on gender identity/expression and related factors has been limited. The aim of this study was to compare the characteristics, experiences, attitude, and expectation toward accessing healthcare service and healthcare providers of transgender women and transgender men in Thailand. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted from October 2017 to March 2018. The data were collected from transgender women and transgender men aged ≥ 18 years old who lived in Thailand using online platform via different websites and Facebook pages of local transgender group. Binary logistic regression was used to identify the factors related to the study outcomes. RESULTS Of 186 transgender people who responded to the questionnaire and were eligible for the study, 73.7% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 66.7-79.8) were transgender women and 26.3% (95% CI = 20.2-33.3) were transgender men. Transgender women were more likely to seek general healthcare from non-traditional healthcare services (crude odds ratio [cOR] = 4.28; 95% CI = 1.55-11.81; P = 0.005), buy hormone treatment from non-traditional healthcare services (cOR = 3.89; 95% CI = 1.18-12.83; P = 0.026), and receive healthcare counseling from non-traditional healthcare providers (cOR = 5.16; 95% CI = 1.42-18.75; P = 0.013) than transgender men. According to the results of applying a multivariable model, transgender respondents who did not know that gender-affirming healthcare services existed in Thailand were more unwilling to receive counseling from gender-affirming healthcare providers than those who did (adjusted odds ratio = 3.70; 95% CI = 1.11-12.36; P = 0.033). CONCLUSIONS The findings from this cross-sectional study indicate that transgender women are more likely than transgender men to receive general healthcare and hormone treatment from non-traditional healthcare services and buy hormone treatment without a physician's supervision. We also found approximately 15% of transgender individuals who did not receive gender-affirming counseling services. Continuing to improve access to care for the transgender community, increasing public relations channels may encourage transgender people to access more healthcare services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nachale Boonyapisomparn
- grid.427494.8Astraea Lesbian Foundation for Justice, New York, USA ,grid.421854.e0000 0004 1936 9529School of Business and Graduate Studies, Trinity Washington University, Washington, DC USA ,The Foundation of Transgender Alliance for Human Rights, Bangkok, Thailand
| | | | - Pimwarat Srikummoon
- grid.7132.70000 0000 9039 7662Department of Statistics, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand ,grid.7132.70000 0000 9039 7662Data Science Research Center, Department of Statistics, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Walaithip Bunyatisai
- grid.7132.70000 0000 9039 7662Department of Statistics, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand ,grid.7132.70000 0000 9039 7662Data Science Research Center, Department of Statistics, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Patrinee Traisathit
- grid.7132.70000 0000 9039 7662Department of Statistics, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand ,grid.7132.70000 0000 9039 7662Data Science Research Center, Department of Statistics, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand ,grid.7132.70000 0000 9039 7662Research Center in Bioresources for Agriculture, Industry and Medicine, Department of Statistics, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Nontiya Homkham
- Faculty of Public Health, Thammasat University, Pathumthani, Thailand.
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Phillips G, Davoudpour S, Floresca YB, Felt D, Curry CW, Wang X, Choi J, Kelsey SW, Beach LB. Disparities in HIV Testing, Condom Use, and HIV Education Between Transgender and Not Transgender High School-Aged Youth: Findings From the 2019 Youth Risk Behavior Survey. HEALTH EDUCATION & BEHAVIOR 2023; 50:29-40. [PMID: 36540958 DOI: 10.1177/10901981221142238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Transgender individuals are disproportionately affected by HIV in the United States. Given increased risk of HIV among youth, there is a need to understand HIV risk and protective factors among transgender individuals who are 18 years and younger. Patterns of HIV testing, HIV education, and condom use have known associations with HIV outcomes among youth in general, but are understudied among transgender youth. This study assessed these outcomes by developing a series of sex-stratified multivariable logistic regression models using pooled Youth Risk Behavior Survey data. Results indicate female and male transgender youth as well as males who were not sure they were transgender were more likely have tested for HIV compared with their not transgender peers. Male transgender youth were significantly less likely to have received HIV education compared with not transgender males. Females not sure if they were transgender and male transgender youth were significantly less likely to have used condoms compared with, respectively, not transgender female and not transgender male counterparts. In sum, condom use and HIV education both remain lower among transgender individuals relative to their not-transgender peers. This highlights the need for the promotion of culturally appropriate HIV education and HIV prevention supports among transgender youth.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Dylan Felt
- Northwestern University, Chicago IL, USA
| | - Caleb W Curry
- Northwestern University, Chicago IL, USA.,Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Xinzi Wang
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
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