The effects of stigma on queer people's physical and mental health have been well documented, but little research has focused on how stigma in medical settings can harm them. One study found that LGBTQ+ individuals were more likely to experience discrimination during interactions with doctors than non-LGBTQ+ patients, which led to worse self-reported physical and mental health outcomes. The stress caused by this discrimination may lead to higher rates of substance abuse among queer people, worsening their already precarious situation.
Transgender individuals face unique challenges when seeking care due to lack of understanding among providers about gender identity issues and treatments for transitioning. These barriers to care often result in worse outcomes, such as increased mortality rates from HIV/AIDS infection. Queer people are also less likely to seek preventive care due to fear of discrimination, leading to delays in diagnosis and treatment that could be fatal.
Many insurance plans don't cover necessary procedures or medications related to gender affirmation surgeries, making it difficult for transgender people to access care they need.
There is evidence that medical institutions themselves create an unsupportive environment for queer employees, contributing to burnout and turnover. To address these issues, we must reimagine our healthcare system so that all patients feel comfortable seeking help without fear of being judged based on their sexual orientation or gender identity.
We should train physicians to understand the needs of LGBTQ+ populations better by incorporating inclusivity into medical education curricula. We also need to make sure that every hospital has a designated point person responsible for ensuring equality and fairness in patient care.
We need to expand coverage for transgender-related services like hormone therapy and surgery, making them available through insurance companies and Medicaid programs. By creating a more welcoming atmosphere within hospitals, we can improve not only the wellbeing of queer people but everyone who seeks medical attention.
How does stigma in medical systems affect the physical and mental health of queer individuals, what reforms are necessary, and how might healthcare be fundamentally redesigned to center queer care?
Stigma towards LGBTQ+ community members within medical systems has been shown to have negative effects on their overall health and wellbeing. Research indicates that they experience higher rates of discrimination when seeking healthcare services, resulting in delays or avoidance altogether (Gilbert et al. , 2018).