The Otolaryngologist's Role in Providing Gender-Affirming Care: An Opportunity for Improved Education and Training.

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The Otolaryngologist's Role in Providing Gender-Affirming Care: An Opportunity for Improved Education and Training.

Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2018 Feb 01;:194599818758270

Authors: Chaiet SR, Yoshikawa N, Sturm A, Flanary V, Ishman S, Streed CG

Abstract
Currently, there are limited resources and training available for otolaryngologists and otolaryngology practice personnel to provide gender-affirming care for transgender or gender nonconforming patients. This unique patient population may present to our offices for gender-specific care or with complaints of the ear, nose, and throat unrelated to gender identity. Our current practice has unintentional but direct consequences on our patients care, as transgender patients often report negative experiences in the healthcare setting related to their gender identity. The absence of resources and training is also seen in other specialties. Physicians who create an environment where patients of all gender identities feel welcome can better meet their patients' health care needs. In addition, otolaryngologists can play a role in easing the gender dysphoria experienced by transgender patients. We suggest educational content should be created for and made available to otolaryngologists and office staff to provide gender-affirming care.

PMID: 29484914 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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