The admission of patients outside the hereronorm is related to better service in the health sector

It has been shown that the acceptance of all identities in the health sector implies the provision of this service. - It's Arg. Things to do in Chinnapong/Shutterstock In a study conducted by several public health researchers from the southern states of the United States, it has been shown that the attitude of the health system and professionals towards LGBTQ+ identities has a significant impact on the tendency of patients in this group to follow preventive policies and use health care services. For example, it has been observed that, depending on the recognition of the identity of the patients, there are significant differences in the diagnosis of HIV and colon cancer and influenza vaccination.

The study analyzes the assessment of health care received by nearly 1,000 adults (50-76 years) of the LGBTQ+ community, taking into account three aspects: LGBTQ+ cultural competence, such as the use of inclusive languages or pseudonyms; LGBTQ+ clinical competence, such as knowledge of all aspects of their health; and situations of discrimination.

The results show that a third of the participants have had positive experiences in these three aspects. And these are also the ones who are most likely to participate in prevention campaigns. In contrast, the majority (60%) indicated that, despite the clinical competence and fair treatment of the workers, they lacked cultural competence. Those who have responded to this test are tested for HIV 43% less than their predecessors. 6% were discriminated against. The latter have been diagnosed with colon cancer in 24% less than those in the first group.

Therefore, researchers have confirmed that an appropriate attitude toward LGBTQ+ patients is beneficial for both patients and public health. In their words, this attitude “saves lives and saves money”.