LGBT Care: Healthcare Access and Hurdles

19th October 2016 Mark Ward

LGBT Health

As a lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender person you are entitled to exactly the same standards of care as heterosexual people in the NHS.

Your rights are now clearly stated in the NHS Constitution, which all NHS organisations have to comply with.

It’s a good idea to tell your doctor if you’re gay, lesbian or bisexual. If your doctor knows about your sexuality or sexual preferences, it can be easier to discuss your life, relationships and health concerns. They can also keep an eye out for any health problems that might be relevant to you.

Studies have shown that lesbian, gay and bisexual people can feel reluctant to talk openly to their GP and may avoid appointments because of fear of prejudice.

As a gay man or woman, you may worry about homophobia. Clinicians, such as nurses and doctors, may occasionally react poorly to a patient who comes out to them. This can be because of ignorance or prejudice.

Either way, it’s unacceptable and illegal. The law, the NHS and the General Medical Council, which regulates doctors, are clear that there should be no discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation or gender identity. If this happens to you, the best thing to do is to make a complaint immediately.

The documents below contain valuable information for LGBT patients, stigma, discrimination, rights and advice for all healthcare professionals.