Healthwatch, which gathers the views of users of health and social care services, is asking members of trans, non-binary and gender-diverse communities to tell of their experiences when they visit the GP.
According to Healthwatch: “GPs are the gateway to accessing other care, whether gender-related or not, but trans and non-binary people can face challenges when navigating services.
“Our research aims to build an up-to-date picture of the healthcare landscape which trans, non-binary and other gender-diverse people individuals are currently navigating.”
In the survey, Healthwatch covers quality of care, discrimination, bureaucracy (around changing gender markers and names), prescriptions, and referrals.
The survey asks several questions to find out:
- If you’ve sought gender-affirming care from your GP
- If you’ve sought general healthcare or support from your GP
- How you feel about the quality of any care you’ve received
Healtwatch has revealed that those with diverse gender identities are more likely to face discrimination in healthcare settings.
The Government’s national LGBT survey in 2018 showed 38% of trans people have had at least one negative experience when using healthcare services. In 2021, TransActual found that 14% of people were refused GP care because they were trans or non-binary at least once.
In response to the national LGBT survey’s findings, the Government published the LGBT Action Plan. But, Heathwatch says, “work by NHS England on improving access and care for trans and non-binary people has since stalled or slowed”.
Healthwatch goes on to say: “More research to understand the healthcare experiences of trans and non-binary people can help identify the steps NHS and other healthcare leaders need to take to improve their quality of care.
“We’ll analyse the survey responses and create a report highlighting the key findings. These findings and recommendations based on feedback from Trans+ people will be shared with healthcare providers, policymakers, and the public.
“By sharing our findings and recommendations with care leaders and service providers we can provide a clearer understanding of the barriers faced by transgender and non-binary individuals in accessing care.
Your participation will help identify areas for improvement, leading to more inclusive and effective healthcare services. Together, we can make a difference and ensure everyone receives the compassionate and affirming care they deserve.”
