Doctors should avail of training to better understand LGBTI+ patient needs- Medical Council

The President of the Medical Council has called on doctors to avail of training opportunities to help them better understand the identities and needs of their LGBTI+ patients.

Speaking on the eve of the Dublin Pride Virtual Parade and Pride Day Dr Suzanne Crowe  said “As doctors we treat members of the LGBTI+ community and as patients we are treated and cared for by members of the LGBTI+ community. Mutual trust and respect are central to the doctor-patient relationship.”

“As a health service there have been many important improvements in addressing the healthcare needs of the LGBTI+ community in recent years, but more can be done. As doctors, we must continue to work for our patients’ needs and fulfil our ethical role as advocates for patient needs.

“Doctors should avail of training programmes, courses and workshops to ensure they are aware of the healthcare needs of the LGBTI+ community, while also making themselves aware of the needs of the various groups in the LGBTI+ community such as the trans community, older LGBTI+ people, LGBTI+ migrants and refugees, LGBTI+ members of the travelling community and the young LGBTI+ community.”