Contemporary LGBTQ + content that should be included in allied health professions education

Abstract

Abstract Though many individuals in the United States of America and worldwide identify as LGBTQ + (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual, and other identities), educational programs for allied health professions often do not adequately cover LGBTQ + issues. The literature clearly identifies a dearth of LGBTQ + information in undergraduate, graduate, and continuing education for allied health professionals. This lack of education and training causes real and perceived prejudice and discrimination by healthcare professionals against people who identify as LGBTQ +. Pertinent issues for people who identify as LGBTQ + and the language used to refer to these individuals changes over time so the LGBTQ + content that allied health education programs cover should be periodically reevaluated. This article summarizes the current state of education on LGBTQ + issues in allied health professions education and suggests contemporary LGBTQ + content that should be included in allied health professions education.

Keywords

• LGBTQ +
• Allied health professions
• Education
• Diversity, equity, and inclusion
• Provider patient relationship