Understanding clinicians’ strategies for providing gender-sensitive care: an exploration among pediatric rehabilitation health care providers

Abstract

Purpose Although there is an increasing awareness of the critical role of gender within pediatric rehabilitation, little is known about the strategies that clinicians use to provide such care. The purpose of this study was to explore clinicians’ strategies for providing gender-sensitive care within a pediatric rehabilitation hospital. Methods We used a qualitative needs assessment design and a convenience sampling strategy to recruit clinicians from a pediatric rehabilitation hospital. We conducted interviews with 23 pediatric rehabilitation health care providers from various disciplines. We applied a thematic analysis to the interview transcripts. Results Our analysis revealed the following themes regarding clinicians’ strategies in providing gender-sensitive care: (1) awareness of gender biases and not making assumptions; (2) recognizing gender-based vulnerabilities; (3) respecting patient values, preferences and needs; and (4) advocacy. Conclusion Health care providers working within pediatric rehabilitation have several strategies for providing a gender-sensitive care approach to clients. IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION Clinicians should seek training (i.e., appropriate terminology, creating inclusive spaces) in how to recognize gender-based health vulnerabilities, especially among patients who identify as non-binary or transgender. Clinicians should make an effort to try to be aware of their own biases and not make gender-based assumptions. Advocacy, respecting patient values, preferences and needs are important aspects of providing gender-sensitive care.