Improving LGBTQ+ Healthcare Access and Equity in Hospital Supply and Equipment Management

Written By Lauren Davis, BS, CPT

Summary

  • Lack of LGBTQ+ specific training and education
  • Discriminatory policies and practices
  • Lack of inclusive medical equipment and supplies

Introduction

Ensuring healthcare access and equity for all individuals, including those who identify as LGBTQ+, is critical in the United States. However, there are significant barriers that hinder LGBTQ+ individuals from receiving the care they need, particularly in hospital supply and equipment management. In this article, we will explore the biggest barriers that impact LGBTQ+ healthcare access and equity in hospital supply and equipment management in the United States.

Lack of LGBTQ+ Specific Training and Education

One of the biggest barriers hindering LGBTQ+ healthcare access and equity in hospital supply and equipment management is the lack of LGBTQ+ specific training and education for Healthcare Providers and staff. Many healthcare professionals may not be knowledgeable about the unique healthcare needs of LGBTQ+ individuals, including the disparities they face in access to care.

  1. Healthcare Providers may lack the understanding of LGBTQ+ identities and terminology, leading to miscommunication and potential harm to patients.
  2. Without proper training, Healthcare Providers may unintentionally perpetuate stereotypes or biases towards LGBTQ+ individuals, impacting the quality of care they receive.
  3. Lack of LGBTQ+ specific training can also result in inadequate resources and support for LGBTQ+ patients, including access to gender-affirming care and services.

Discriminatory Policies and Practices

Discriminatory policies and practices within hospital supply and equipment management can also pose significant barriers to LGBTQ+ healthcare access and equity. From restrictive visitation policies to lack of inclusive language on patient forms, these practices can create a hostile environment for LGBTQ+ individuals seeking care.

  1. Many hospitals may not have policies in place to protect LGBTQ+ individuals from discrimination, leading to fear and reluctance to seek care.
  2. Discriminatory practices, such as misgendering or deadnaming patients, can result in emotional distress and impact the trust between Healthcare Providers and LGBTQ+ patients.
  3. Failure to provide inclusive resources and facilities, such as gender-neutral restrooms or LGBTQ+ support groups, can further marginalize LGBTQ+ individuals in healthcare settings.

Lack of Inclusive Medical Equipment and Supplies

Another barrier to LGBTQ+ healthcare access and equity in hospital supply and equipment management is the lack of inclusive medical equipment and supplies. From appropriately sized blood pressure cuffs to gender-affirming products, many healthcare facilities may not have the necessary resources to meet the specific needs of LGBTQ+ patients.

  1. Medical equipment that is not designed to accommodate diverse body types or gender identities can result in inaccurate measurements and misdiagnosis for LGBTQ+ individuals.
  2. Lack of access to gender-affirming supplies, such as binders or hormone replacement therapy, can prevent LGBTQ+ individuals from receiving the necessary care to support their health and well-being.
  3. Healthcare facilities may also lack training on how to appropriately use and maintain inclusive medical equipment and supplies, further limiting access for LGBTQ+ patients.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are several significant barriers hindering LGBTQ+ healthcare access and equity in hospital supply and equipment management in the United States. From lack of LGBTQ+ specific training and education to discriminatory policies and practices, these barriers create challenges for LGBTQ+ individuals seeking care. Addressing these barriers requires a comprehensive approach that includes improving training for Healthcare Providers, implementing inclusive policies and practices, and ensuring access to appropriate medical equipment and supplies. By prioritizing the needs of LGBTQ+ patients, healthcare facilities can create a more inclusive and equitable environment for all individuals.

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Lauren Davis, BS, CPT

Lauren Davis is a certified phlebotomist with a Bachelor of Science in Public Health from the University of Miami. With 5 years of hands-on experience in both hospital and mobile phlebotomy settings, Lauren has developed a passion for ensuring the safety and comfort of patients during blood draws. She has extensive experience in pediatric, geriatric, and inpatient phlebotomy, and is committed to advancing the practices of blood collection to improve both accuracy and patient satisfaction.

Lauren enjoys writing about the latest phlebotomy techniques, patient communication, and the importance of adhering to best practices in laboratory safety. She is also an advocate for continuing education in the field and frequently conducts workshops to help other phlebotomists stay updated with industry standards.

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