‘Gay-friendly’ healthcare

HOMOSEXUALS or bisexuals face additional problems in accessing health services, according to a report due to be published by the Equality Authority this week.

The study into the experience of lesbian, gay and bisexual people in accessing health services in the HSE’s north-west region identified concerns about the ability of healthcare workers to deal with the specific needs of such patients.

Three out of 10 participants claimed they had never informed medical staff about their sexual orientation, while 50% had only disclosed it to some healthcare providers.

The report states: “It is important to create a context within healthcare settings that is supportive of people disclosing their sexual identity where it is appropriate.”

Respondents expressed concern about their entitlement to visitation rights and access to information about their partner’s health in the absence of legal recognition for their relationships.

The report suggests the lack of acceptance of homosexuality and fears of discrimination explains the high level of those surveyed who had attended services seeking support for mental health issues — more than 60%.

Gay, lesbian and bisexual patients also voiced fears about confidentiality in informing healthcare staff about their sexuality.

Niall Crowley, chief executive of the Equality Authority, said the report’s findings highlighted how the wellbeing of lesbian, gay and bisexual people was reliant on a health service with the capacity to identify, understand and respond effectively and appropriately to their needs.

“We hope the report will contribute to a ‘gay and lesbian-friendly’ health service where assumptions of heterosexuality of service users are not made,” said Mr Crowley.

Ursula Barry of the Gay and Lesbian Equality Network said investment was needed in the HSE to ensure health services were provided in a more open and gay-friendly manner.

Meanwhile, a campaign will be launched today calling on the Government to legislate for marriage for same-sex couples.