Treating every patient with dignity and respect is the goal of every health care provider regardless of race, creed, color, religion, sexual orientation or identity. Approaching matters from a place of respect and service creates a safe and welcoming space for patients identifying with any gender expression and/or identification that may not necessarily match the sex they were assigned at birth. Earlier this month, members participated in a training on The Transgender Healthcare Dignity Model, presented by board-certified therapist Kristie Overstreet, PhD, to help health care providers navigate myriad terms and foster understanding through an eight-step approach:

1.        The basics
2.        Inclusive intake
3.        Terms
4.        Gender dysphoria
5.        Social & medical transition
6.        Medical needs
7.        Fears
8.        Awareness

The half-day session was held at the Moseley-Salvatori Conference Center at Good Samaritan Hospital in Los Angeles on March 15. Participants were encouraged to:

• Follow the patient’s lead on gender identity and expression.
• Maintain self-awareness with respect to their personal presumptions and facial expressions while providing care.
• Keep questioning in line with the level of care needed for a particular patient visit.
• Maintain patient-focused and patient-driven care.

HASC members in attendance expressed confidence in sharing information learned with nurses, staff and senior leadership. 

Contact:
Jamila Mayers
(213) 538-0739
jmayers@hasc.org