Improving Transgender And Gender-diverse Patient Experience Within The Colposcopy Clinic

 

Antony Lavercombe¹; E June Davies²

1.University of Liverpool, School of Medicine, fifth year medical student 2.Blackpool teaching hospitals foundation trust consultant Obstetrics and gynaecology

 

 

• The 2021 UK National Census data reveals that 0.5% (262,000) of the population do not identify their gender with the sex they were assigned at birth. (1)
• This transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) population faces lower levels of engagement with gynaecological malignancy screening programs and follow-up investigations compared to the cisgender population. (2)
• In the UK, if TGD patient chose to change their recorded  gender designation from female to male, they are not automatically called for Cervical screening. (3)
• It is crucial to adjust clinical practice to increase engagement and reduce negative health outcomes for the TGD patient group.

 

              To develop a multi-faceted strategy that enhances the clinical environment and clinical practice within colposcopy clinics to promote patient engagement and improve the overall experience for TGD patients.

              This strategy aims to address obstacles that impede the provision of inclusive and effective care, ultimately leading to improved health outcomes within this patient group.

 

• Inspirational patient interaction within the colposcopy clinic
• Review of current literature based on TGD patient care was performed
• Evaluation of the RCOG care of Transgender and gender diverse adults within obstetrics and gynaecology draft copy 2022
• Collation of specialist resources to devise recommendations to improve colposcopy experience for TGD patients
• Colposcopy screening
• Provide appropriate screening programs for all patients regardless of their recorded gender
• Consider potential anxiety and gender dysphoria for TGD patients
• Account for hormonal therapy-related atrophy during procedures for TGD patients
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• Patient Literature
  • Use of Gender-inclusive language
  • Provide resources for transgender patients
  • Offer support for patients to discuss concerns and alleviate anxiety before and during appointment
• Reception and waiting room
  • Use inclusive language and  posters
  • Minimise female-only areas
  • Opportunities for sharing pronouns
• Training
  • Linguistic training
  • Medical record alterations
  • Patient demographic and their presentation

 

 

 

 

              In conclusion the recommended changes to colposcopy clinics include the use of gender-inclusive language, providing resources and support for TGD patients and providing appropriate screening programmes for all patients regardless of their recorded gender. With these changes, we can promote inclusivity and engagement withing the TGD population and ultimately improve health outcomes  within this patient group