Medical attitudes towards transgender patients.

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Healthcare Disparities
• Transgender Health

Background:

• Transgender individuals represent a growing population facing significant healthcare discrimination.
• Stigma contributes to adverse physical and mental health outcomes in transgender patients.
• Understanding physician perceptions is crucial for improving transgender healthcare.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the attitudes and perceptions of doctors towards their transgender patients.
• To identify differences in how consultants and trainee doctors interact with transgender individuals.

Main Methods:

• A standardized questionnaire was administered to doctors in mental and physical healthcare settings.
• The study focused on a specific borough in south-east England.
• A 22% response rate was achieved.

Main Results:

• Most responding doctors had encountered transgender patients.
• Consultant doctors were more comfortable interacting with transgender patients.
• Consultants were more likely to use preferred pronouns and be aware of relevant care policies than trainees.

Conclusions:

• Physician perceptions of transgender patients vary, with consultants demonstrating greater familiarity and comfort.
• Findings contribute to the understanding of healthcare provider attitudes towards transgender individuals.
• Further research and training may be needed to address disparities in care.