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Chaudhry A, Hebert-Beirne J, Alessi EJ, Khuzam MZ, Mitchell U, Molina Y, Wasfie D, Fox S, Abboud S. Barriers and facilitators to healthcare utilisation by Arab sexual minority women migrants in the USA. CULTURE, HEALTH & SEXUALITY 2024:1-16. [PMID: 39092493 DOI: 10.1080/13691058.2024.2384055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 07/21/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
Limited research on sexual minority women migrants demonstrate that they face elevated rates of mental health problems compared to their heterosexual and male counterparts, and less is known about their healthcare seeking behaviours. This study aimed to identify barriers and facilitators to mental and physical healthcare utilisation among first-generation (foreign-born) Arab sexual minority women migrants in the USA and to assess whether Penchansky and Thomas' theory of access can be used to understand their healthcare utilisation behaviours. We conducted 20 semi-structured interviews via Zoom. Employing community-engaged research methods, four advisors, Arab sexual minority women migrants and a mental health service provider, assisted in recruitment and thematic data analysis providing a rich and nuanced understanding of study findings. Five main themes demonstrated the pivotal role of cultural humility from providers and access to medical insurance in shaping healthcare-seeking decisions. Difficulties finding therapists and navigating the referral process and wait times encouraged participants to seek care outside of the USA in their Arab countries of origin. Stigma and social support further influenced participants' decisions to seek mental healthcare. The study findings inform policy and practice to foster the development of inclusive healthcare services grounded in cultural humility and to develop support groups specifically for Arab sexual minority women migrants to the USA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aeysha Chaudhry
- Division of Community Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of IL Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Jennifer Hebert-Beirne
- Division of Community Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of IL Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Edward J Alessi
- School of Social Work, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Maya Z Khuzam
- Department of Political Science, University of MI, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Uchechi Mitchell
- Division of Community Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of IL Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Yamile Molina
- Division of Community Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of IL Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Dhuha Wasfie
- Department of Psychology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL, USA
| | - Samara Fox
- Baystate Medical Center, Springfield, MA, USA
| | - Sarah Abboud
- Department of Human Development Nursing Science, College of Nursing, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
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2
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Tang Z, Du S. Revisiting the Immigrant Health Advantage: Self-Reported Health and Smoking Among Sexual Minority Immigrants. J Immigr Minor Health 2024; 26:35-44. [PMID: 37526837 DOI: 10.1007/s10903-023-01527-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023]
Abstract
This study aims to examine how the immigrant health advantage (IHA) may differ by sexual orientation. Using data from the 2015-2019 National Health Interview Survey, we examined general health status (n = 131,635) and smoking behavior (n = 131, 658) for US-born and foreign-born heterosexual and sexual minority adults, as well as how the duration of stay in the U.S. may influence sexual minority immigrants' health. Logistic regression models were adopted to examine the health outcomes of immigration in different immigrant groups divided by sexual orientation. Findings show a weaker immigrant health advantage among sexual minorities than heterosexual persons, which disappears or turns into a disadvantage for several subpopulations (i.e., foreign-born homosexual individuals who stayed for 10-15 or 15 + years in the U.S.). Foreign-born homosexual individuals having stayed in the U.S. for a decade or more have substantially higher odds of reporting poor/fair health and smoking currently than their US-born counterparts. Although immigrants' health advantage overall attenuates over time, sexual minority immigrants' health erodes more with time spent in the U.S. The disparities in immigrants' health advantages suggest a segmented health acculturation (or even marginalization) process and entail higher sexual orientation-based health disparities among immigrants than among US-born individuals, likely reinforcing the preexisting health disparities in the country. The findings call for policies to address the multifaceted barriers to health equity at the intersection of social disadvantages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zequn Tang
- School of Sociology and Political Science, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shichao Du
- Department of Sociology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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3
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Bouzaidi TD, Ragbi A. An analysis of the trend towards universal health coverage and access to healthcare in Morocco. HEALTH ECONOMICS REVIEW 2024; 14:5. [PMID: 38244126 PMCID: PMC10799377 DOI: 10.1186/s13561-023-00477-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We aim in this study to investigate the association between access to health care services and various components of universal health coverage in Morocco, controlling for socioeconomic, demographic, and cultural factors. DATA AND METHODS The study employed a logistic regression method to model the relationship between access to health care as binary outcome variable and health coverage, using the longitudinal data collected from the Household Panel Survey of the National Observatory of Human Development (ONDH) spanning the period from 2013 to 2019. RESULTS The study reveals a significant association between access to health care services and having medical coverage taking into consideration socioeconomic and demographic characteristics as the main determinants of access to health care services. CONCLUSION The study investigates the impact of demographic and socioeconomic factors on medical care utilization. The econometric model reveals that individuals with medical coverage, particularly through AMO and RAMED, are more likely to seek health care services, emphasizing the positive influence of universal health coverage. Additionally, demographic and socioeconomic characteristics such as gender, education, employment, and living environment significantly affect health care-seeking behavior. Urban residents, women, and those with higher standards of living are more inclined to access health care services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tarek Drissi Bouzaidi
- Faculty of Law, Economic and Social Sciences, Mohammed V University, Rabat, Morocco.
| | - Aziz Ragbi
- Faculty of Law, Economic and Social Sciences, Mohammed V University, Rabat, Morocco
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4
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Nation A, Pelayo J, Trevino M, Ambalada AM, Hojilla JC, Raynor P, Outlaw F. Exploring Health Care Access Among Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Populations in Orange County, California: A Pilot Cross-sectional Study. Nurs Adm Q 2024; 48:11-20. [PMID: 38049096 PMCID: PMC10842985 DOI: 10.1097/naq.0000000000000616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/06/2023]
Abstract
There are approximately 90 000 lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) individuals in Orange County, California. LGBT individuals have significant health disparities, particularly if they are from racial or ethnic minority groups and/or have a disability. There are structural and access barriers in the health care system that increase these health disparities. These individuals experience discriminatory situations when accessing health care and mental health services, which may affect their health-seeking behaviors. The purpose of this pilot quantitative cross-sectional study was to gather information about the current health care experiences and needs of this LGBT population including priority health issues, physical and mental health care utilization, and perceived adequacy of LGBT-friendly physical and mental health care providers. These findings will inform organizational strategies for nursing administrators and other health care leaders when tailoring, planning, and redesigning structures that meaningfully address the service needs of this at-risk group. Seventy-five participants were recruited from 2 organizations serving the LGBT community to complete an online survey. Findings include trouble finding an LGBT competent provider, delays or being unable to access care, and worried about losing insurance. Most participants needed to visit multiple different locations to receive care and preferred a 1-stop shop.
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Affiliation(s)
- Austin Nation
- School of Nursing, California State University, Fullerton
| | | | - Mathew Trevino
- School of Nursing, California State University, Fullerton
| | | | - J. Carlo Hojilla
- Weill Institute for Neurosciences, Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Francisco
| | - Phyllis Raynor
- College of Nursing, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina
| | - Frieda Outlaw
- American Nurses Association, SAMHSA Minority Fellowship Program, Silver Spring, Maryland
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5
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Nowaskie DZ. Evaluation of the Three National Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, and Other Sexual and Gender Minority (LGBTQ+)-Competent Provider Directories in the United States. JOURNAL OF HOMOSEXUALITY 2023; 70:1718-1724. [PMID: 35179444 DOI: 10.1080/00918369.2022.2040930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Provider directories may serve as a bridge solution until lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and other sexual and gender minority (LGBTQ+) education becomes a requisite within standard medical education. The three national LGBTQ+-competent provider directories in the United States were evaluated. Two directories served the LGBTQ+ community while one served the gender minority community. All enumerated thousands of providers. One allowed provider-specific feedback. All provided searchable criteria (e.g., provider name, location, specialty, population identity, service type, payment types, gender identity, and languages spoken). By implementing these key features, existing and future directories could better provide equitable healthcare access for the LGBTQ+ population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dustin Z Nowaskie
- Department of Psychiatry, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
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6
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Cerezo A, Ching S, Ramirez A. Healthcare Access and Health-Related Cultural Norms in a Community Sample of Black and Latinx Sexual Minority Gender Expansive Women. JOURNAL OF HOMOSEXUALITY 2023; 70:782-805. [PMID: 34842502 DOI: 10.1080/00918369.2021.1999123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Major strides have been made in understanding the impact of intersectionality in everyday life. However, there is a significant gap in the research literature on how individuals with multiple minority statuses must uniquely interact and navigate health services. We carried out an exploratory qualitative study with twenty sexual minority gender expansive women of Latinx and African American descent to explore participants' access to health services and the impact of cultural factors on their health decisions and behaviors. Participants described long-term challenges with accessing health services that were primarily tied to income and discriminatory treatment on the part of health providers. Participants also shared regular discouragement from family members to engage with U.S./Western medicine and health traditions. Together, participants' early life experiences and the continued messages from family members, influenced their health behaviors (e.g., delaying care). Implications for future research and health services are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison Cerezo
- Department of Counseling, Clinical and School Psychology, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, California, USA
| | - Sesame Ching
- Department of Counseling, San Francisco State University, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Amaranta Ramirez
- Department of Counseling, Clinical and School Psychology, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, California, USA
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7
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Gupta AK, Salway T. Prescription Drug Insurance and Cost-Related Medication Nonadherence Among Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Individuals in Canada. LGBT Health 2022; 9:426-435. [PMID: 35537531 DOI: 10.1089/lgbt.2021.0273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: This study estimates the frequency of uninsurance for prescription drugs and cost-related medication nonadherence (CRNA) among lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) persons in Canada, compared with the heterosexual population. Methods: Logistic regression was used to quantify associations between sexual orientation, insurance status, and CRNA within the national probability-based Canadian Community Health Survey, 2015-2016. This sample included 98,413 individuals aged 15-80 years, including 2803 LGB individuals. Results: From our sample of Canadians, 22.2% of LGB respondents reported being uninsured for prescription drugs, compared with 20.0% of heterosexual persons (unadjusted odds ratio [UOR] 1.00, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.75-1.33). LGB individuals had more than twice the odds of reporting CRNA compared with heterosexual individuals (UOR 2.48, 95% CI 1.99-3.10). This disparity was most pronounced among bisexual respondents, who had over three times the odds of reporting CRNA in comparison to heterosexual respondents (UOR 3.45, 95% CI 2.65-4.51). The odds ratio (OR) for CRNA comparing bisexual with heterosexual individuals remained statistically significant after adjustment for race/ethnicity, gender/sex, and age (OR 2.67, 95% CI 1.97-3.61) and was further attenuated with adjustment for partnership status, employment status, income, educational attainment, prescription drug insurance status, general health status, and immigration status (OR 2.09, 95% CI 1.51-2.89). Conclusion: LGB Canadians reported more CRNA but comparable prescription drug insurance frequencies to heterosexual persons. Factors pertaining to medication access (e.g., income, partnership status) and health needs appear to be the most important contributors to disparities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amit K Gupta
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, Canada.,Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Travis Salway
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, Canada.,Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, Canada.,Centre for Gender and Sexual Health Equity, Vancouver, Canada
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8
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Silveri G, Schimmenti S, Prina E, Gios L, Mirandola M, Converti M, Fiorillo A, Pinna F, Ventriglio A, Galeazzi GM, Sherriff N, Zeeman L, Amaddeo F, Paribello P, Pinna F, Giallanella D, Gaggiano C, Ventriglio A, Converti M, Fiorillo A, Galeazzi GM, Marchi M, Arcolin E, Fiore G, Mirandola M, Schimmenti S, Silveri G, Prina E, Amaddeo F, Bragazzi NL. Barriers in care pathways and unmet mental health needs in LGBTIQ + communities. Int Rev Psychiatry 2022; 34:215-229. [PMID: 36151825 DOI: 10.1080/09540261.2022.2075256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, queer people and minority gender identities and sexualities (LGBTIQ+) are often stigmatized and experience discrimination in health care settings, leading to poorer mental health outcomes and unmet needs compared to heterosexual and cisgendered peers. It is thus imperative that mental health providers consider and address structural challenges in order to reduce mental health inequalities of this population. This narrative review assessed the barriers that may prevent access to care and the pathways for care in LGBTIQ + communities. PubMed, PsycInfo, Embase, and Scopus were searched for papers published between December 2021 and February 2022. A total of 107 papers were included with studies reflecting five themes: (1) Unmet mental health needs; (2) Young people; (3) Substance abuse and addiction; (4) Barriers and pathways to care; and (5) Interventions. Findings demonstrate that LGBTIQ + people experience stigmatization and higher rates of substance misuse and mental ill health, which may lead to barriers in accessing health care services, and fewer tailored interventions being provided. These findings have implications for policy, health care screening, and how specialist services are structured. Substantial gaps in the evidence-base exist, and future research should examine how mental health care providers can challenge social issues that maintain discriminatory and stigmatizing practices, and support LGBTIQ + individuals to sustain their resilience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giada Silveri
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Simone Schimmenti
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Eleonora Prina
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | | | - Massimo Mirandola
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Infectious Diseases Section, University of Verona, Verona, Italy.,School of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Brighton, Brighton, UK
| | | | - Andrea Fiorillo
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Federica Pinna
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Antonio Ventriglio
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Gian Maria Galeazzi
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.,Department of integrated activity of Mental Health and Pathological Dependencies, USL-IRCSS company of Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Nigel Sherriff
- School of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Brighton, Brighton, UK.,Centre for Transforming Sexuality and Gender, University of Brighton, Brighton, UK
| | - Laetitia Zeeman
- School of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Brighton, Brighton, UK.,Centre for Transforming Sexuality and Gender, University of Brighton, Brighton, UK
| | - Francesco Amaddeo
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | | | - Pasquale Paribello
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Federica Pinna
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Daniela Giallanella
- Department of Clinical and Experimental, University di Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Costanza Gaggiano
- Department of Clinical and Experimental, University di Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Antonio Ventriglio
- Department of Clinical and Experimental, University di Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | | | - Andrea Fiorillo
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Gian Maria Galeazzi
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Mattia Marchi
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Elisa Arcolin
- Department of Mental Health and Drug Abuse, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Gianluca Fiore
- Department of Mental Health and Drug Abuse, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Massimo Mirandola
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Simone Schimmenti
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Giada Silveri
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Eleonora Prina
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Francesco Amaddeo
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Nicola Luigi Bragazzi
- Laboratory for Industrial and Applied Mathematics (LIAM), Department of Mathematics and Statistics, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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9
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Lee DC, Wang J, Shi L, Wu C, Sun G. Health insurance coverage and access to care in China. BMC Health Serv Res 2022; 22:140. [PMID: 35114992 PMCID: PMC8812221 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-022-07498-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The study examined the relationship between health insurance coverage and access to needed healthcare including preventive, primary, and tertiary care among Chinese adult population. DATA AND METHODS Data for this study came from the 2018 China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS), a population-based probability sample survey. Key measures included insurance coverage (high-, moderate-, low- and no-insurance), access to care (physical examination, physician visit, office visit, inpatient care, and satisfaction with care), and personal sociodemographics. Multiple-factor generalized linear mixed model was applied to estimate the odds ratio (OR) and the 95% confidence interval (CI) of HI coverage for the four indicators of access to care, after controlling for individual characteristics and aggregation among different villages. RESULTS The majority of Chinese adults had some health insurance with only 3.15% uninsured. However, most had low-coverage insurance (64.82%), followed by moderate-coverage insurance (16.70%), and high-coverage insurance (15.33%). Health insurance was significantly and positively associated with access to needed healthcare (preventive, primary, and tertiary). There was also a significant gradient association between extent of insurance coverage and access to care. CONCLUSION Not only health insurance mattered in enhancing access to care but that there was a significant gradient association between extent of insurance coverage and access to care with higher coverage relating to better access.
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Affiliation(s)
- De-Chih Lee
- Department of Information Management, Da-Yeh University, No.168, University Rd., Dacun, Changhua, 515006, Taiwan, R.O.C.,Johns Hopkins Primary Care Policy Center, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Jing Wang
- Johns Hopkins Primary Care Policy Center, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.,Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Leiyu Shi
- Johns Hopkins Primary Care Policy Center, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.,Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, 515006, USA
| | - Caroline Wu
- Johns Hopkins Primary Care Policy Center, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Gang Sun
- Department of Health Management, School of Health Management, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, P.R. China.
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10
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Kruse MI, Voloshin D, Wan M, Clarizio A, Bigham BL, Upadhye S. Care of Sexual and Gender Minorities in the Emergency Department: A Scoping Review. Ann Emerg Med 2021; 79:196-212. [PMID: 34785088 DOI: 10.1016/j.annemergmed.2021.09.422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Revised: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
STUDY OBJECTIVE This scoping review was conducted to collate and summarize the published research literature addressing sexual and gender minority care in the emergency department (ED). METHODS Using PRISMA-ScR criteria, an electronic search was conducted of CINAHL, Embase, Ovid Medline, and Web of Science for all studies that were published after 1995 involving sexual and gender minorities, throughout all life stages, presenting to an ED. We excluded non-US and Canadian studies and editorials. Titles and abstracts were screened, and full-text review was performed independently with 4 reviewers. Abstraction focused on study design, demographics, and outcomes, and the resulting data were analyzed using an ad hoc iterative thematic analysis. RESULTS We found 972 unique articles and excluded 743 after title and abstract screening. The remaining 229 articles underwent full-text review, and 160 articles were included. Themes identified were HIV in sexual and gender minorities (n=61), population health (n=46), provider training (n=29), ED avoidance or barriers (n=23), ED use (n=21), and sexual orientation/gender identity information collection (n=9). CONCLUSION The current literature encompassing ED sexual and gender minority care cluster into 6 themes. There are considerable gaps to be addressed in optimizing culturally competent and equitable care in the ED for this population. Future research to address these gaps should include substantial patient stakeholder engagement in all aspects of the research process to ensure patient-focused outcomes congruent with sexual and gender minority values and preferences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael I Kruse
- Department of Family Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Daniel Voloshin
- Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Melissa Wan
- Department of Family Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Alexandra Clarizio
- Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Blair L Bigham
- Division of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA
| | - Suneel Upadhye
- Division of Emergency Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
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11
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Nowaskie DZ. Development, Implementation, and Effectiveness of a Self-sustaining, Web-Based LGBTQ+ National Platform: A Framework for Centralizing Local Health Care Resources and Culturally Competent Providers. JMIR Form Res 2021; 5:e17913. [PMID: 34550083 PMCID: PMC8495572 DOI: 10.2196/17913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2020] [Revised: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and other sexual and gender minority (LGBTQ+) population has long faced substantial marginalization, discrimination, and health care disparities compared to the cisgender, heterosexual population. As the etiology of such disparities is multifaceted, finding concrete solutions for LGBTQ+ health care equity is challenging. However, the internet may offer the space to initiate an effective model. Objective In an effort to make LGBTQ+ public resources and culturally competent providers transparent, modernize medical education, and promote cultural competency, OutCare Health—a nonprofit 501(c)(3) multidisciplinary, multicenter web-based platform—was created. Methods The organization employs a cyclic, multidimensional framework to conduct needs assessments, identify resources and providers, promote these efforts on the website, and educate the next generation of providers. LGBTQ+ public health services are identified via the internet, email, and word of mouth and added to the Public Resource Database; culturally competent providers are recruited to the OutList directory via listservs, medical institutions, local organizations, and word of mouth; and mentors are invited to the Mentorship Program by emailing OutList providers. These efforts are replicated across nearly 30 states in the United States. Results The organization has identified over 500 public health organizations across all states, recognized more than 2000 OutList providers across all states and 50 specialties, distributed hundreds of thousands of educational materials, received over 10,000 monthly website visits (with 83% unique viewership), and formed nearly 30 state-specific teams. The total number of OutList providers and monthly website views has doubled every 12-18 months. The majority of OutList providers are trained in primary, first point-of-care specialties such as family medicine, infectious disease, internal medicine, mental health, obstetrics and gynecology, and pediatrics. Conclusions A web-based LGBTQ+ platform is a feasible, effective model to identify public health resources, culturally competent providers, and mentors as well as provide cultural competency educational materials and education across the country. Such a platform also has the opportunity to reach self-perpetuating sustainability. The cyclic, multidisciplinary, multidimensional, multicenter framework presented here appears to be pivotal in achieving such growth and stability. Other organizations and medical institutions should heavily consider using this framework to reach their own communities with high-quality, culturally competent care for the LGBTQ+ population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dustin Z Nowaskie
- Department of Psychiatry, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
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12
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Sprott RA, Randall A, Smith K, Woo L. Rates of Injury and Healthcare Utilization for Kink-Identified Patients. J Sex Med 2021; 18:1721-1734. [PMID: 37057495 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2021.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2021] [Revised: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Kink-involved people engage in atypical erotic activities such as bondage, rough sex, and other fetish activities that might risk injury or medical complication. To date, however, no one has examined the rate of injury or healthcare utilization for people who engage in these activities. AIM To describe the type and rate of injuries from kink activities, and the use of healthcare by kink-involved people, including how many people disclose their involvement in kink when seeking care. METHODS A survey of 1,398 kink-involved or kink-identified people, using a convenience sampling method. OUTCOMES The study is the first to report on rates of injury and disclosure of kink involvement to care providers using a large community sample of kink-involved people. RESULTS A high number of participants did not disclose their kink behavior to their physical healthcare clinician (58.3%) or to their mental healthcare clinician (49.6%). Past experiences of kink-related injuries were relatively common (13.5%), as was the number of people who reported delaying or avoiding healthcare because of anticipated or perceived stigma for kink involvement (19.0%). CLINICAL TRANSLATION The findings of the current study point to the need for clinicians to address barriers to culturally competent care for kink-involved people. Anticipated stigma leads to non-disclosure of kink involvement and delay in seeking care, thereby creating barriers to health and well-being. STRENGTHS & LIMITATIONS Strengths include a sample size large enough to examine regression models to predict disclosure to care providers, and lifetime rates of injury from kink activities overall. Limitations include the use of a convenience sampling method and self-report survey design, which affect the generalizability of the results. CONCLUSION The patterns of anticipated stigma, delay or avoidance of care, and concealment of kink and/or BDSM involvement fit the Minority Stress Model, and we argue that kink-identified people should be considered a sexual minority for the purposes of healthcare. Sprott RA, Randall A, Smith K et al. Rates of Injury and Healthcare Utilization for Kink-Identified Patients. J Sex Med 2021;18:1721-1734.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anna Randall
- The Alternative Sexualities Health Research Alliance, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Kevin Smith
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Lauren Woo
- University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, USA
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Coombs NC, Meriwether WE, Caringi J, Newcomer SR. Barriers to healthcare access among U.S. adults with mental health challenges: A population-based study. SSM Popul Health 2021; 15:100847. [PMID: 34179332 PMCID: PMC8214217 DOI: 10.1016/j.ssmph.2021.100847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Revised: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Having sufficient healthcare access helps individuals proactively manage their health challenges, leading to positive long-term health outcomes. In the U.S., healthcare access is a public health issue as many Americans lack the physical or financial resources to receive the healthcare services they need. Mental healthcare is especially difficult due to lingering social stigmas and scarcity of services. Subsequently, those with mental health impairment tend to be complex patients, which may convolute delivery of services. Objective To quantify the prevalence of barriers to healthcare access among U.S. adults with and without mental health challenges (MHC) and evaluate the relationship between MHC and no usual source of care (NUSC). Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted with data from the 2017-2018 National Health Interview Survey. MHC was categorized into three levels: no (NPD), moderate (MPD) and severe (SPD) psychological distress. Eight barriers were quantified; one was used as the primary outcome: NUSC. Multivariable logistic regression was used to quantify associations between these characteristics. Results The sample included 50,103 adults. Most reported at least one barrier to healthcare access (95.6%) while 13.3% reported NUSC. For each barrier, rates were highest among those with SPD and lowest for those with NPD. However, in the multivariable model, SPD and MPD were not associated with NUSC (OR, 0.92; 95% CI, 0.83-1.01; 0.88; 0.73-1.07). Male sex (1.92; 1.78-2.06), Hispanic race/ethnicity (1.59; 1.42-1.77), and worry to afford emergent (1.38; 1.26-150) or normal (1.60; 1.46-1.76) healthcare were associated with NUSC. Having a current partner (0.88; 0.80-0.96), dependent(s) (0.77; 0.70-0.85) and paid sick leave (0.60; 0.56-0.65) were protective. Conclusions The most prevalent barriers to healthcare access link to issues with affordability, and MHC exist more often when any barrier is reported. More work is needed to understand the acuity of burden as other social and environmental factors may hold effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas C Coombs
- School of Public & Community Health Sciences, University of Montana, 32 Campus Dr, Missoula, MT, 59812, USA
| | - Wyatt E Meriwether
- VA Heartland Network 15, Kansas City VA Medical Center, 4801 E. Linwood Blvd., Kansas City, MO, 64128, USA
| | - James Caringi
- School of Public & Community Health Sciences, University of Montana, 32 Campus Dr, Missoula, MT, 59812, USA
| | - Sophia R Newcomer
- School of Public & Community Health Sciences, University of Montana, 32 Campus Dr, Missoula, MT, 59812, USA
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Schefter A, Thomaier L, Jewett P, Brown K, Stenzel AE, Blaes A, Teoh D, Vogel RI. Cross-sectional study of psychosocial well-being among lesbian, gay, bisexual, and heterosexual gynecologic cancer survivors. Cancer Rep (Hoboken) 2021; 5:e1461. [PMID: 34057316 PMCID: PMC8842686 DOI: 10.1002/cnr2.1461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Revised: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Delays in care and increased risk for mental health diagnoses put individuals identifying as a sexual minority with cancer at risk for decreased quality of life. Aim To assess psychosocial health among sexual minority gynecologic cancer survivors, we compared self‐reported quality of life and psychosocial measures between individuals diagnosed with gynecologic cancers identifying as lesbian/gay/bisexual (LGB) and heterosexual. Methods and Results English‐speaking adults with gynecologic cancers were invited to participate in an ongoing cohort survey study. Quality of life and psychosocial measures included the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy‐General, Distress Thermometer (distress), Patient Health Questionnaire‐8 (depression), General Anxiety Disorder‐7 (anxiety), and Post‐traumatic Stress Disorder Checklist for DSM‐5 (post‐traumatic stress disorder; PTSD). Measures were compared by self‐reported sexual orientation (heterosexual vs. LGB) using descriptive statistics (frequencies and means) and linear and logistic regression models, adjusting for college education. Of 814 patients invited, 457 enrolled (56.1%) and 401 (92.6%) completed the survey and provided information on their sexuality. All but one self‐identified as cisgender women and 22 (5.5%) as LGB. LGB participants were more likely to have completed college (68.2% vs. 40.1%, p = .009) but were otherwise similar across demographic and clinical characteristics. Quality of life and distress scores were similar between groups. LGB participants, compared to heterosexual, reported higher rates of depression (31.8% vs. 10.6%, adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 4.1 [95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.6–11.0], p = .004), anxiety (25.0% vs. 7.1%, adjusted OR = 5.4 [95% CI: 1.7–16.7], p= .004), and PTSD (13.6% vs. 3.5%, adjusted OR = 4.2 [95% CI: 1.1–16.3], p = .04). Conclusion LGB participants reported poorer emotional health following a gynecologic cancer diagnosis than heterosexual participants. Our data suggest this population may need additional resources and support during and after their cancer diagnosis. Future work is needed to identify additional risk factors and the underlying sources of these disparities in order to improve patient care and wellness in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Schefter
- Department of Obstetrics, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Gynecology and Women's Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Lauren Thomaier
- Department of Obstetrics, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Gynecology and Women's Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Patricia Jewett
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Katherine Brown
- Department of Obstetrics, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Gynecology and Women's Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Ashley E Stenzel
- Program in Health Disparities Research, Department of Family Medicine & Community Health, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Anne Blaes
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Deanna Teoh
- Department of Obstetrics, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Gynecology and Women's Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Rachel I Vogel
- Department of Obstetrics, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Gynecology and Women's Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
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15
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Cervical cancer screening among sexual minority women: findings from a national survey. Cancer Causes Control 2021; 32:911-917. [PMID: 33987774 DOI: 10.1007/s10552-021-01442-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 05/02/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Sexual minority women (SMW; lesbian, bisexual, and other women who have sex with women) are at risk for cervical cancer but less likely than non-SMW to receive regular cervical cancer screening (Pap- and/or HPV-testing). We examined factors contributing to receipt of guideline-based cervical cancer screening among SMW. METHODS During October 2019, we conducted an online survey of self-identified SMW aged 21-45 years living in the United States (n = 435). We estimated risk differences (RD) in women's likelihood of being within current cervical cancer screening guidelines by sociodemographic and health-related characteristics. RESULTS Overall, 75% of respondents were within current screening guidelines. Adjusting for other factors, SMW were more likely to be within guidelines if they were insured (aRD 0.26, 95% CI 0.13, 0.39), had a partner (aRD 0.18, 95% CI 0.09, 0.28), and were older (aRD 0.12, 95% CI 0.04, 0.20). Overall, the most common reasons for not being screened recently were lack of insurance/cost (42%) and perceiving it was unnecessary (28%). CONCLUSION Many SMW are not being screened for cervical cancer according to guidelines. Findings can inform efforts to improve screening among this population.
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Russell EA, Tsai C, Linton JM. Children in Immigrant Families: Advocacy Within and Beyond the Pediatric Emergency Department. CLINICAL PEDIATRIC EMERGENCY MEDICINE 2020; 21:100779. [PMID: 32922213 PMCID: PMC7480259 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpem.2020.100779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
In the United States, 1 in 4 children lives in an immigrant family. State and national policies have historically precluded equitable access to health care among children in immigrant families. More recently, increasingly restrictive policies, political rhetoric, and xenophobic stances have made immigrant families less able to access health care and less comfortable in attempting to do so, thus increasing the likelihood that patients will present to the emergency department. Once in the emergency department, language, cultural, and health literacy barriers make providing high-quality care potentially challenging for some families. Emergency care professionals can therefore glean critical insight regarding inequities from clinical work to inform advocacy and policy changes at institutional, community, regional, and national levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric A Russell
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Emergency Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX
| | - Carmelle Tsai
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Emergency Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Julie M Linton
- Department of Pediatrics and Assistant Dean for Admissions, University of South Carolina School of Medicine Greenville and Prisma Health Children's Hospital, Greenville, SC
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