Six-month review to explore LGBT+ healthcare barriers

A first of its kind review has been launched by NHS England (NHSE) to examine the health inequalities faced by LGBT+ people, hoping to address disparities in access, experience and outcomes across a range of services. 

The six-month study will examine a wide range of data and evidence in primary care, mental health, cancer screening, perinatal care, sexual health, and HIV services.

Dr Michael Brady, NHSE’s national adviser for LGBT+ health, is leading the study and will report to health and social care secretary Wes Streeting in December.

Dr Brady said the review would use an evidence-based approach to examine where and why these inequalities persist and to recommend how they should be addressed, as well as describing areas of best practice.

He added: ‘I’m very keen for any organisations or individuals who work in healthcare who might have valuable data or evidence to contribute to the review, so we can get the best possible understanding of the issues and make effective recommendations to the government.’

The review follows longstanding evidence of health inequalities, with the government’s 2018 national survey finding that LGBT+ people reported poor access to mental health services and poor experience of healthcare services in general.

Mr Streeting commented: ‘For too many LGBT+ people, accessing quality healthcare remains a challenge, and one often marked by discrimination, misunderstanding, and miseducation.

‘That’s why I’ve commissioned a comprehensive review into LGBT+ health inequalities – because every patient deserves dignity, respect, and excellent care, regardless of who they are or who they love.’

A version of this article was first published on our sister title, The Pharmacist.