Addressing Current Issues Facing LGBTQIA+ Patients in Physical Therapy and Healthcare - Real Comments on a Pride Month Post by the APTA
It’s really painful to see, in real time, the ways that my colleagues in healthcare, specifically in physical therapy, choose to show up in regards to the treatment of LGBTQIA+ patients. Historically, rather than bring attention to it, I would choose to quietly skulk away from the post, and try to forget about it as soon as possible. Unfortunately, my denial in the name of “loyalty to the profession” or “but I don’t want to scare patients” doesn’t serve the people I am most committed to serving. With that said, I want to bring attention to the comments on a Pride Post on the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) Facebook page. This blog post uses real comments from physical therapists to highlight the ongoing issues faced by LGBTQIA+ patients in physical therapy and healthcare more broadly, and provides insights into how we can move towards more inclusive and respectful care.
Understanding the Issues
The comments from the APTA Facebook page reflect a range of opinions on LGBTQIA+ inclusivity in physical therapy. Here are some key themes that emerged:
1. Support and Resistance to Inclusivity
Example Comment: "I love and treat everyone with respect but I’m not on board with this so-called pride month."
This comment reflects a tension between personal beliefs and professional responsibilities. While the commenter professes respect for all individuals, there is clear discomfort with institutional recognition of LGBTQIA+ issues, such as Pride Month. This tension can translate into real barriers for LGBTQIA+ patients seeking care.
2. Religious and Ethical Concerns
Example Comment: "My issue involves paying dues to an organization that promotes the celebration of a lifestyle that is contrary to Biblical teaching."
Religious beliefs can play a significant role in shaping attitudes towards LGBTQIA+ inclusivity. While it is important to respect individual beliefs, these views should not interfere with providing equitable and compassionate care to all patients. Balancing personal beliefs with professional duties is a challenge that needs to be addressed constructively.
3. Misunderstanding and Lack of Education
Example Comment: "How do you measure someone feeling 'welcomed' in a clinic? That is very obscure measurements."
This comment highlights a lack of understanding about the importance of creating a welcoming and inclusive environment. Feelings of being welcomed and respected are critical for patient trust and engagement, which directly impact health outcomes.
Broader Healthcare Challenges
The issues highlighted in the comments are not unique to physical therapy. LGBTQIA+ patients face a range of challenges across the healthcare spectrum, including:
1. Discrimination and Stigma
LGBTQIA+ individuals often encounter discrimination and stigma in healthcare settings, leading to negative health outcomes. According to a 2018 survey by the Center for American Progress, nearly 30% of LGBTQIA+ respondents experienced discrimination in healthcare, causing many to avoid seeking care.
2. Mental Health Disparities
LGBTQIA+ individuals are at a higher risk for mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation. These disparities are often exacerbated by experiences of discrimination and lack of supportive care environments.
3. Access to Competent Care
Many healthcare providers lack the training and knowledge to address the specific needs of LGBTQIA+ patients. This can result in inadequate or inappropriate care, further discouraging individuals from seeking treatment.
Moving Towards Inclusive Care
Addressing these challenges requires a concerted effort from both individual providers and the broader healthcare system. Here are some steps we can take:
1. Education and Training
Healthcare providers must be educated on the unique needs of LGBTQIA+ patients and trained in cultural competence. This includes understanding the social and medical contexts of LGBTQIA+ health and recognizing the importance of inclusive language and practices.
Action Steps:
Participate in cultural competence and sensitivity training programs focused on LGBTQIA+ health issues.
Attend workshops, webinars, and conferences that address LGBTQIA+ healthcare topics.
2. Creating a Welcoming Environment
A welcoming environment is essential for building trust with LGBTQIA+ patients. This involves using inclusive language, displaying visible support, and ensuring privacy and confidentiality.
Action Steps:
Use inclusive and gender-neutral language in communication.
Display symbols of support, such as LGBTQIA+ flags or stickers, in your clinic.
3. Respecting Gender Identity
Respecting and affirming a patient's gender identity is crucial for providing effective care. This includes using the patient’s stated pronouns and names and understanding the specific needs of transgender patients.
Action Steps:
Ask patients for their pronouns and use them consistently.
Use the name that the patient prefers, regardless of legal documents.
Be prepared to provide or refer patients to appropriate resources and services for gender-affirming care.
Conclusion
The comments from the APTA Facebook page reflect the ongoing challenges and tensions within the physical therapy community regarding LGBTQIA+ inclusivity. By addressing these issues head-on and committing to education, inclusivity, and respect, we can improve the healthcare experience for LGBTQIA+ patients. Providing inclusive care is not only an ethical obligation but also a practical necessity for ensuring that all patients receive the high-quality care they deserve. Together, we can create a healthcare environment that truly respects and values every individual.
Additional Resources
The Fenway Institute: Offers training and resources on LGBTQIA+ health.
GLMA (Health Professionals Advancing LGBTQ Equality): Provides educational materials and guidelines for healthcare providers.
National LGBT Health Education Center: Offers webinars, publications, and training programs on LGBTQIA+ health issues.