RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Addressing Needs of Transgender Patients: The Role of Family Physicians
JF The Journal of the American Board of Family
                Medicine
JO J Am Board Fam Med
FD American Board of Family Medicine
SP 314
OP 321
DO 10.3122/jabfm.2020.02.180228
VO 33
IS 2
A1 Asa E. Radix
YR 2020
UL http://www.jabfm.org/content/33/2/314.abstract
AB There are approximately 1 million transgender and gender-diverse adults in the United States. Despite increased awareness and acceptance, they frequently encounter medical settings that are not welcoming and/or health care providers who are not knowledgeable about their health needs. Use of correct terminology, following best practices for name and pronoun use, and knowledge of gender-affirming interventions can create office environments that are welcoming to transgender clients. Health disparities faced by transgender patients that impact access to care include higher rates of mental health issues, substance use disorders, violence, and poverty. Transgender women are at greater risk for HIV acquisition and are less likely to achieve viral suppression compared with cisgender (nontransgender) individuals. Medical providers can facilitate HIV prevention efforts by offering pre- and postexposure prophylaxis to transgender patients at risk for HIV infection. Improving health outcomes requires attention to cultural competency and an understanding of lived experiences and priorities of transgender people.