The lack of comprehensive queer health training in medical curricula has been identified as one of the major contributors to the perpetuation of structural inequities in care, diagnosis, and patientâ€"provider relationships. This is because when physicians are not trained to recognize and address the unique needs of queer individuals, they may miss important signs and symptoms that could lead to inaccurate diagnoses or suboptimal treatments.
If a doctor fails to consider the possibility that a patient's symptoms may be related to their gender identity, they may not refer them for hormone therapy, which can have significant implications for their mental and physical wellbeing. Similarly, if a physician does not understand the significance of a same-sex relationship, they may fail to recommend appropriate forms of birth control or sexually transmitted infection screenings. As a result, this can lead to avoidable complications and even death. In addition to these issues, the lack of queer health training can also lead to uncomfortable or even hostile interactions between patients and providers, resulting in lower trust and worse outcomes. By failing to provide comprehensive training on queer health, medical education perpetuates systemic barriers and contributes to poorer overall health outcomes for queer individuals.
There are ways to integrate queer affirming practice into medical education at systemic levels. One approach is to include more inclusive language and examples in textbooks and lecture materials, such as using pronouns like 'they/them' instead of just 'he/she'. Another strategy is to require courses on LGBTQ+ health, including content on transgender medicine and sexual orientation.
Offering training workshops specifically focused on queer health for students can help ensure that future doctors are equipped with the skills necessary to provide quality care to all patients regardless of their sexuality or gender identity. By taking these steps, medical education has the potential to create a more equitable healthcare system where all individuals receive the care they deserve.