5 Things LGBTQIA+ Individuals Wish They Could Tell Healthcare Providers
For many in the LGBTQIA+ community, a visit to the doctor's office can be filled with anxiety and apprehension. While healthcare providers strive to offer the best care, subtle biases and a lack of understanding can create barriers that prevent patients from being open and honest about their health needs.
Here are five things LGBTQIA+ individuals wish they could tell their healthcare providers, but often don’t:
1. "My family is not what you might assume."
Many healthcare forms and questions are structured around the traditional nuclear family. For LGBTQIA+ individuals, "family" can include same-sex partners, chosen families, or children from adoption or surrogacy. Assumptions about a patient's marital or family status can make them feel invisible or disrespected. A simple, open-ended question like, "Are you in a relationship, or is there anyone you would like to consider as family?" can make a world of difference.
2. "Please use my correct name and pronouns."
Using a patient's correct name and pronouns is a fundamental sign of respect. For transgender and gender non-conforming individuals, this can be especially critical. Being misgendered or called by a name that doesn't align with their identity can be a distressing and invalidating experience. Even if a provider makes a mistake, acknowledging and apologizing for it shows that they care about the patient's well-being.
"My partner's pronouns matter, too." A common assumption providers make is that a patient's partner is of a different gender. Asking, "Do you have a partner? What are their pronouns?" instead of assuming can signal to a patient that you are inclusive and respectful of their relationship, no matter who their partner is.
3. "Don’t make assumptions about my sexual health."
A person's sexual orientation does not dictate their sexual practices. Assuming that a gay man only has sex with men or that a lesbian woman doesn't need certain screenings can lead to gaps in care. Open and non-judgmental questions about a patient's sexual history and practices are essential for providing comprehensive care, regardless of their sexual identity.
"Do I HAVE to take a pregnancy test?- Healthcare forms and procedures often assume a cisgender woman is only sexually active with men and may automatically require a pregnancy test, even if the patient has specified they are not sexually active with men. This can feel invalidating and intrusive. Simply asking the patient if they would like to take a pregnancy test instead of assuming it is necessary empowers them in their own healthcare decisions.
4. "My mental health is connected to my identity and experiences."
The LGBTQIA+ community faces unique social pressures, discrimination, and potential lack of family support, which can contribute to higher rates of mental health issues like anxiety and depression. A provider who understands these risks and is sensitive to them can help a patient feel seen and supported. Asking about a patient’s support system and their general well-being can open the door for a conversation about mental health.
5. "Please don’t deny me care, or force me to educate you."
Unfortunately, some LGBTQIA+ individuals have experienced delays or outright denials of care due to their identity. This can range from a trans man being denied gynecological care to a hospital staff refusing to provide medication to a person with HIV. While it's important for providers to be knowledgeable, it's not the patient's responsibility to educate their provider about basic LGBTQIA+ health concerns. Patients should not have to face an additional burden of having to justify their existence in a healthcare setting.