Radiologists can play an active role in improving the healthcare experience for transgender patients, most of whom have had a negative imaging encounter.
Across the United States, 1.4 million individuals identify as being transgender. Although that accounts for only 0.6 percent of adults, these individuals frequently need imaging services, particularly if they opt to pursue gender affirmation surgery, referred to as transitioning.
Unfortunately, recently published research revealed that 71 percent of transgender patients have experienced at least one negative encounter with an imaging provider. There is currently a lack of information about data-driven practices that can improve the care these patients receive, so a multi-institutional team, led by Hannah Perry, M.D., a diagnostic radiologist with the University of Vermont Medical Center, published six steps in the Journal of the American College of Radiology to help radiologists provide the best care possible to this group.
Take a quick look at their recommendations: