Ways to Improve Care for LGBT Patients in Dermatology Clinics

Dermatol Clin. 2020 Apr;38(2):269-276. doi: 10.1016/j.det.2019.10.012. Epub 2019 Nov 27.

Abstract

Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) patients face significant dermatologic health disparities. LGBT patients are often discriminated against, refused healthcare, or otherwise have negative healthcare experiences that may deter future utilization of professional care. While a number of factors may mitigate these negative experiences, the present article focuses on improving organizational and institutional drivers specific to individual dermatology clinics. Clinic workflow and operations, emerging technologies and EHRs, clinic culture, clinic environment and resource availability, and provider and staff education are all characteristics of healthcare clinics that can be improved to better facilitate high-quality dermatologic care for LGBT patients.

Keywords: Bisexual; Clinic change; Dermatology; Gay; Health disparities; LGBT; Lesbian; Organizational change; Transgender.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Allied Health Personnel*
  • Ambulatory Care / organization & administration*
  • Ambulatory Care Facilities
  • Confidentiality
  • Cues
  • Culturally Competent Care
  • Dermatology*
  • Electronic Health Records
  • Healthcare Disparities*
  • Humans
  • Organizational Culture
  • Pamphlets
  • Patient Education as Topic
  • Patient Portals
  • Quality Improvement*
  • Referral and Consultation
  • Sexual and Gender Minorities*
  • Social Media
  • Workflow*