Understanding discrimination faced by transgender people in the health and social care settings

Abstract

Abstract Background This session reports on a literature review from a study aiming to identify whether there is a positive correlation between inclusive legal gender recognition procedures, and well-being of transgender people within the EU. The review explores socio-demographic/economic profiles of transgender people, and forms of discrimination faced. Methods The review is based on 47 peer-reviewed articles and 11 grey literature reports, provides analysis concerning sociodemographic/economic positions of transgender people, and an overview of discrimination faced. Results The focus is discrimination within health & social care, how this leads to unmet health needs and a lower sense of wellbeing within the trans population. Due to actual, or expected, discrimination, some trans individuals will not disclose their gender identity in a healthcare context, or may avoid using such services altogether. Mental health was a focus of many of the studies, with prevalence of depression, self-injury, and suicidal thoughts being higher for this group. Fewer studies reported on the physical health status, with some studies finding that transgender people had low health status. Studies suggest that professionals may treat trans people in an insensitive or inappropriate way, largely due to a lack of knowledge/ignorance, for example health & social care staff often had little knowledge of trans people and their health & wellbeing, how to appropriately address them, and how to support their care. Trans individuals may also be treated in a discriminatory way in the context of trans-specific healthcare, for e.g within a gender unit due to a non-binary gender identity. Conclusions Discrimination has a negative impact on health & wellbeing, specifically mental health, mainly due to discrimination trans people face.This has a negative effect on actual/future health & well-being, as it translates into fear of seeking care, and postponing/avoiding care, due to actual or expected poor treatment. Key messages The review contributes to an evidence base to address discrimination faced by transgender people, however there is a lack of evidence found in the area of EU transgender health and wellbeing issues. The study seeks to confirm a positive correlation between inclusive LGR and well-being of transgender people in the EU, which can help contribute to improving their quality of life.