Many members of the LGBT community admit they avoid seeking medical attention because of fear of discrimination. But when they do decide to discuss an issue with a doctor, it’s quite possible that the doctor hasn’t been adequately trained to meet their needs.
The results of a study at UCLA show that a “startling low” number of academic medical practices identify “LGBT competent” physicians. This competency means the doctor has received specialized training in how to respectfully interact with an LGBT patient, as well as how to take their medical and sexual history, perform exams, and support with them psychosocial or behavioural issues.
Out of the 138 academic faculty practices involved in the study, 32 per cent of the physicians had LGBT training — and only 9 per cent of the faculties had systems in place to properly care for LGBT patients.
More than 3 per cent of the U.S. population identifies as LGBT, and these individuals have a higher chance of mental disorders — making it critical for them to find timely, supportive medical care.
However, 80 per cent of the physicians responded that they were interested in finding ways to better serve LGBT patients, and study’s senior author is anticipating “a significant increase in procedures and training.”
H/T Fusion.net
