Providing Inclusive Care for LGBTQ+ Individuals: A Guide for UK Healthcare Professionals

Course Description

This course offers healthcare professionals an  understanding of LGBTQ+ terminology, including gender identity, sexual orientation, and the importance of inclusive practices. Participants will gain insight into the unique health disparities experienced by LGBTQ+ individuals and learn strategies to provide person-centred, inclusive care. The course equips professionals with practical tools to create safe and welcoming environments, use inclusive language, and understand the legal protections afforded to LGBTQ+ communities. By fostering equality and cultural competence, this course empowers healthcare providers to contribute to improved health outcomes and the overall well-being of LGBTQ+ individuals.

Aims

1. To develop a deeper understanding of LGBTQ+ terminology and concepts related to gender identity and sexual orientation.
2. To explore the health disparities faced by LGBTQ+ individuals and their impact on physical and mental health.
3. To equip healthcare professionals with tools to provide person-centred and inclusive care tailored to the needs of LGBTQ+ individuals.
4. To promote the use of inclusive language and practices that ensure a safe and welcoming environment for all patients.
5. To increase awareness of legal protections and rights for LGBTQ+ communities and how these relate to healthcare delivery.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

1. Define key LGBTQ+ terminology and understand its significance in healthcare settings.
2. Identify health disparities and barriers to care experienced by LGBTQ+ individuals and develop strategies to address them.
3. Apply principles of person-centred care to meet the needs of LGBTQ+ patients.
4. Demonstrate the use of inclusive language and practices to foster safe and welcoming healthcare environments.
5. Recognize and integrate knowledge of legal protections and anti-discrimination laws in the delivery of equitable healthcare services.

This course is suitable for NHS screening providers, including:

• Primary care practitioners
• Screening programme coordinators
• Nurses and allied health professionals
• Public health professionals