New Medical Guide Brings LGBT Care Into Practice

 

"Almost everyone could use help on this topic.” 

 

by Cody Gohl

 

1/30/2017

 

 

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A new textbook is providing medical professionals with the tools needed to address specific health needs in the LGBT community. 

Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Healthcare: A Clinical Guide to Preventive, Primary, and Specialist Care was born out of frustration, says Dr. Jesse Ehrenfeld of the Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, who authored the book with Dr. Kristen Eckstrand. 

Dr. Jesse Ehrenfeld of the Vanderbilt University School of Medicine

  

“Our students came to us and said, ‘We’re not getting the training we need,’” Ehrenfeld told AMA Wire. 

In addition to sections on sexually transmitted infections, adolescence, and mental health issues, the text also delves into internalized homophobia, political inequality and immigrant health. 

“LGBT health is a relatively new field,” says Ehrenfeld, “and there is a growing recognition of the gap between the unique needs of LGBT patients and what most clinicians understand. Almost everyone could use help on this topic.”

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These gaps not only make it more difficult for physicians to treat LGBT patients, but make patients hesitant to seek out medical services—especially if they identify as transgender or gender-nonconforming. 

A survey conducted by the National Center for Transgender Equality found that nearly 30 % of trans people postpone seeing a doctor due to concerns about discrimination. 

Just last week, a federal judge ruled it was legal for doctors and hospitals to refuse service to trans people if it was based on religious beliefs. 

More broadly, one in five LGBT adults routinely withhold information about their sexual practices from physicians for fear of judgment.

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Ehrenfeld, the first openly gay member of the AMA board of trustees, hopes the guide will expand empathy and understanding in the medical community. 

“It’s not just a book for internists. It’s not just a book for surgeons,” he said. “It’s designed to be a book that any practicing clinician would find valuable, whether they’re looking for care recommendations or just trying to understand how they can make their practice more affirming, welcoming and accepting of LGBT patients.”

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