The RCGP has launched a series of online learning modules to help primary care clinicians deliver ‘best possible care’ for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Trans (LGBT) patients.
The six new online learning modules, as well as podcasts and screencasts, aim to ensure users have access to evidence-based, up-to-date information to deal with the unique health needs LGBT patients may have.
The modules cover inequalities in healthcare provision, creating an inclusive primary care environment, mental health and suicide prevention, screening issues in the LGBT population (specifically best practice for the cervical smear process in trans men and non-binary people with a cervix) the older LGBT patient, and sexual and reproductive needs of the LGBT community.
In 2017, there were an estimated 1.1 million people in the UK, aged 16 and over, who identified as LGB. According to the latest National LGBT survey, the community can experience inequalities when accessing healthcare.
RCGP chair Professor Martin Marshall said the primary care team was ‘highly-trained to deliver high-quality, non-judgemental care to all our patients. We want to ensure LGBT patients receive good, safe care, and that they can access our services when they need them.
‘We hope that the new e-learning resources – based on the latest clinical evidence – will prove valuable in supporting frontline GPs and our teams to deliver the best possible care for every LGBT patient we see.’
Access the LGBT hub at elearning.rcgp.org.uk/lgbthealth – you don’t need to be a member, but you do need to register.
