Working with transgender clients: learning from physicians and nurses to improve occupational therapy practice

Area of Science:

• Occupational therapy
• Transgender health care
• Health equity

Background:

• Transgender health care is crucial, encompassing mental and physical well-being.
• Occupational therapy (OT) has largely overlooked transgender health care needs.
• Limited discussion exists regarding OT's role in supporting transgender individuals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore primary care nurses' and physicians' experiences with transgender health care.
• To extend insights from primary care to inform occupational therapy practice.
• To provide recommendations for OT interventions for transgender clients.

Main Methods:

• Conducted semi-structured interviews with 12 primary care nurses and 9 physicians.
• Included clinicians with experience in lesbian, gay, and bisexual patient care.
• Focused on understanding clinical experiences with transgender health.

Main Results:

• Participants expressed uncertainty and a desire for specialized knowledge in transgender care.
• Key elements for effective practice included patient collaboration, stigma acknowledgment, and inclusive systems.
• Holistic care, navigating healthcare systems, and advocacy were identified as vital components.

Conclusions:

• Occupational therapists require enhanced knowledge and skills for transgender health.
• Suggestions are offered to create welcoming environments and interactions for transgender clients.
• Specific OT interventions for the transitioning process are proposed.