A review has been launched that will examine the health inequalities faced by LGBT+ people, in an effort to address disparities in access, experience and outcomes across a range of services, NHS England has said.
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.’
Joan Saddler, director of partnerships and equality at the NHS Confederation, said: ‘We welcome this review to help the NHS understand where and why these inequalities persist and what more can be done to meet the needs of LGBTQ+ people.
‘Everyone deserves to have a positive healthcare experience and we are deeply concerned that LGBTQ+ people face significant health inequalities, both in terms of access to care and overall health outcomes.
‘We support the government’s ambition to create a health system where everyone feels safe, respected, and seen, and we look forward to reading the recommendations in the final report.’
A version of this article was first published on our sister title The Pharmacist.
