10 Ways to Create a Welcoming Environment for LGBTQIA+ Patients and Staff

Find out how to create safe spaces, promote equity, and foster belonging for your LGBTQIA+ patients and staff with these simple and effective tips ranging from revising forms and updating signage to collaborating with local organizations and more in today’s Osmosis blog.The LGBTQIA+ community has endured a variety of forms of discrimination and oppression throughout history. Even today, the US is embroiled in a number of heated controversies relating to the LGBTQIA+ community including a record number of anti-LGBTQIA+ bills (400+ as of April 2023) focused on limiting gender-affirming healthcare options and prohibiting any instruction related to sexual orientation in schools, as well as a significantly increased number of threats of violence toward hosts of drag queen storybook time and other pro-LGBTQIA+ events.

In a world where there’s so much discrimination and intolerance, we encourage you to consciously create welcoming, inclusive spaces for your LGBTQIA+ patients and staff. To make that a little easier, we’ve identified ten key strategies for making healthcare environments more inclusive for LGBTQIA+ patients and staff.

1. Lead by example

Healthcare professionals have a big role to play in helping LGBTQIA+ patients feel safe and comfortable. A good place to start is by taking the time to learn about the terminology and current challenges of being part of the LGBTQIA+ community. Once you’ve set aside the time to become more familiar, expand your efforts by requiring your team to do the same.

We suggest checking out resources like the Human Rights Campaign’s glossary of terms and learning resources from the National LGBTQIA+ Health Education Center.

2. Learn about the impacts of LGBTQIA+ discrimination

The more you know about what your patients have been through, the better you can care for them. Learning more about the history of the LGBTQIA+ community and the impacts of homophobia and transphobia will help you empathize and better understand your patients and their specific healthcare needs. Consider attending community events, inviting experts to speak to your staff, or exploring resources like the University of Washington’s guide to LGBTQIA+ history.

3. Welcome LGBTQIA+ patients with visual cues in waiting rooms and exam spaces

To help LGBTQIA+ patients feel at ease, make sure to provide visual cues that you welcome everyone. Post inclusive signage and display literature that reflects diverse identities and experiences. Share your pronouns during telehealth calls and encourage your patients to do the same. Prominently display the progress pride and transgender pride flags, which can go a long way in making your patients feel safe and respected.

4. Update your email, website, and social media

Post your non-discrimination policies in your office, on your website, and regularly in social media posts. Regularly update the language and images used in your materials to be more representative of the gender spectrum and the variety of sexual orientations.

5. Rethink Office Forms and Processes

Make sure your internal forms and processes are as inclusive as your external communication. Revise forms to include multiple options for sexual orientation, gender identity, and relationship status. Whenever possible, use the correct pronouns, refer to your patient’s chosen name, and encourage colleagues to do the same. These small shifts help limit embarrassing mistakes and can help your patients feel seen and respected.respected.

6. Take an Inclusive Sexual History

Discussing a patient’s sexual history can be a sensitive topic, especially for those still exploring their sexuality. Approach these conversations with an open mind and a non-judgmental attitude.

Consider giving patients the option to choose who they’d be comfortable speaking to. For instance, a young transgender patient may prefer to have someone who’s gone through a similar journey to take their history.

7. Provide all-gender and/or single-user restrooms and non-gendered signage

Imagine needing to use the restroom and not being sure if you can safely enter one without being questioned or confronted about it. Even if it’s not required by law, we suggest you take the time to update your restrooms and install non-gendered signs in your healthcare facility. And if you make everyone’s facilities the same (including providing sanitary bins and baby changing tables) then everyone can feel comfortable and welcomed.

8. Reach out to the local LGBTQIA+ community center or organization

Being an ally is more than just saying the right words and having inclusive policies (although it’s a great start). It also means finding ways to support the LGBTQIA+ community by either partnering with local organizations or joining forces to show solidarity.

Consider hosting LGBTQIA+ events in your space. Participate in Pride events or other community activities to demonstrate your support of your LGBTQIA+ patients. And even if you can’t directly participate, make sure to encourage those who do!

9. Actively recruit and retain LGBTQIA+ staff and clinicians

Representation really does matter. Having a diverse team, including members from the LGBTQIA+ community, can go a long way in making patients feel at home and less alone. And don’t stop at recruiting LGBTQIA+ staff; make sure to actively work to retain them. They’re your best resource for honest, impactful feedback regarding community needs and concerns.

10. If you’re LGBTQIA+, consider coming out to patients

If you’re part of the LGBTQIA+ community and feel comfortable doing so, consider coming out to your patients (either publicly or when appropriate during an appointment). Doing so can help create a sense of safety and build trust since many LGBTQIA+ patients seek out healthcare providers who are supportive of or directly relate to their experiences.

Conclusion: Inclusion requires active engagement

Creating an inclusive healthcare environment isn’t a one-time thing. It’s a shift in how people think and respond, so it may take some time. However, by taking these steps, you can play a big part in creating safe spaces for your LGBTQIA+ patients. And by promoting inclusivity, you can contribute to a more equitable health system and a better society for all.

In the end, it’s about creating an atmosphere where everyone feels welcome and heard. And with a little effort, we can make a big difference.difference.

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