Date of Publication
1-29-2025
Abstract
Background: The Vermont Diversity Health Project (VDHP) seeks to improve care for 2STLGBTQIA+ individuals by maintaining a database of affirming healthcare providers. However, the database lacks standardized criteria for provider inclusion. In partnership with the Pride Center of Vermont, we explored best practices in 2STLGBTQIA+ healthcare and assessed whether self-identified providers on the VDHP database meet these standards. Our research question asks: Do these providers deliver care aligned with established best practices for 2STLGBTQIA+ patients? Methods: We consulted experts and reviewed literature to identify best practices for 2STLGBTQIA+ healthcare. Using the World Professional Association for Transgender Health Standards of Care 8 (SOC 8) as a framework, we developed a 31-question REDCap survey to evaluate provider adherence to these standards. The survey was distributed to 240 providers listed in the VDHP database. Results: The survey received 77 responses (32% response rate). Of respondents, 64.9% identified as part of the 2STLGBTQIA+ community, 62.3% worked in mental health, and 71% practiced in private settings. Most providers (88%) reported offering gender-affirming care, while 66% used electronic health records (EHRs) that included patient pronouns. Pronoun disclosure practices varied: 36% always mentioned their pronouns to patients, while 22% rarely did. Gender-inclusive restrooms were available in 81% of clinical spaces. Conclusions: Some SOC 8 metrics are not consistently met by self-identified providers, potentially impacting patient care. Future work should include a broader range of providers and incorporate patient input. This research could inform the development of a standardized survey to guide provider selection for the VDHP database.
Advisor(s)
Katherine Mariani, MD, MPH
Larner College of Medicine
Kell Arbor, MA
Pride Center of Vermont
Agency
Pride Center of Vermont
Subjects
LGBT, Health Care Access and Quality
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial 3.0 License
Recommended Citation
Lindholm, Anne; Chin, Cassandra; Gleason, Lindsey; Salcedo, Camila; Geaghan-Breiner, Julia; Kim, Marie; and Bonesteel, Sasha, "Evaluating Best Practices in LGBTQIA+ Healthcare: A Vermont Diversity Health Project Initiative" (2025). Public Health Projects, 2008-present. 329.
https://scholarworks.uvm.edu/comphp_gallery/329
