HPA 438 Lesson 11 Reflection
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School
Pennsylvania State University, Harrisburg *
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Course
MISC
Subject
Health Science
Date
Dec 6, 2023
Type
docx
Pages
4
Uploaded by MegaOtterMaster110
Erin Merced
Penn State University
HPA 438
Professor Wafula
November 10th, 2023
Immigrants/Refugees & LGBTQ+ Reflection
The video provides a heart-wrenching perspective on the challenges that LGBTQ+
individuals face while seeking healthcare. It highlights the urgent need for changes in the
healthcare system to address the barriers and disparities faced by them. By doing so, we can
create a healthcare system that is inclusive, equitable, and compassionate while providing high-
quality care to all, irrespective of their sexual orientation or gender identity. It is crucial to move
towards a future where LGBTQ+ patients not only feel accepted for who they are but also
receive the healthcare they need to lead happy and fulfilling lives.
Healthcare providers often fail to create inclusive environments for LGBTQ+ individuals.
This can lead to LGBTQ+ patients feeling marginalized and less likely to disclose important
health information. Heteronormative or cisnormative perspectives can influence questions and
assumptions made by healthcare providers, which can negatively impact the quality of care
received by LGBTQ+ patients. In some cases, healthcare providers may even exhibit
discrimination or discomfort when dealing with LGBTQ+ patients, leading to stigmatization and
suboptimal care. This can have adverse effects on health outcomes and deter individuals from
seeking healthcare altogether. Due to past negative experiences or the anticipation of
discrimination, many LGBTQ+ individuals may be hesitant to share their sexual orientation or
gender identity with healthcare providers. This can hinder accurate assessments and appropriate
care.
LGBTQ+ individuals face a higher risk of mental health challenges, such as depression,
anxiety, and suicidal thoughts. These challenges often arise from societal discrimination, family
rejection, and internalized stigma. Members of the LGBTQ+ community may engage in sexual
behaviors that require specialized healthcare, such as regular HIV and sexually transmitted
infection (STI) testing. Missed screenings can occur due to a lack of open communication with
healthcare providers. LGBTQ+ individuals are at a higher risk of certain cancers, such as anal
and breast cancer. Therefore, regular screenings and early detection are crucial for positive
outcomes. Transgender individuals often require gender-affirming care, which includes hormone
therapy and gender-affirming surgeries, to alleviate gender dysphoria. However, barriers to
accessing these treatments can lead to severe psychological distress.
It's unfortunate that healthcare professionals may not receive sufficient training to cater to
the specific healthcare needs of LGBTQ+ patients. As a result, they might feel uncomfortable
and lack knowledge when dealing with such patients. Furthermore, most healthcare forms and
processes are based on heterosexual and cisgender norms, which can make LGBTQ+ patients
feel invisible and unheard. This, in turn, leads to discrimination, such as refusal of care or
derogatory remarks, which aggravates disparities and creates a hostile environment for LGBTQ+
patients.
Comprehensive training on LGBTQ+ healthcare needs, cultural competence, and
sensitivity is imperative for healthcare providers. They should understand the unique health risks
and challenges that LGBTQ+ patients face. Healthcare institutions must adopt inclusive practices
that respect diverse gender identities and sexual orientations. This includes using gender-neutral
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