"Queering" or reexaming a topic from a queer or LGBT lense is nothing new. However, instead of "queering" pop culture (ala topics like Sex in the City) we should apply this concept to health issues.
As someone who trains healthcare providers about the healthcare issues affecting the LGBT community I am constantly assessing how our society and providers perceive certain health topics. A recent article by The Advocate on domestic violence constantly reminded me that many health issues, particularly mental health issues, are framed within a "straight" or hetero lense. Therefore, they are not perceived as issues that affect the LGBT community.
Some examples of issues that could use some reframing are:
- domestic violence -> same-sex partners are just as likely to be victims or perpetrators of domestive violence as members of straight couples
- eating disorders -> generally they are framed as a young, straight woman's issue, but young gay men have the second highest rates of several types of eating disorders, including bulimia
Until we can get our community's healthcare providers to understand these issues from an inclusive perspective, they may not be able to give their patients and clients the support that they deserve. That is why it is so troubling that medical providers (med students/doctors specifically) on average only receive five hours of training on LGBT sensitivity and the specific healthcare needs of the community.
If you a current healthcare provider who would like more training on these issues, or you instruct future healthcare providers (psychologists, doctors, dentists, etc.) please contact us to set up a training.
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