A new field guide provides hospitals with strategies and tools to improve health outcomes and be a safe and inclusive environment for lesbian, gay bisexual and transgender (LGBT) patients. The resource was developed by the Joint Commission, a US-based non-profit organization, with support from the California Endowment.
The guide provides hospitals with a tool kit of strategies, practice examples, resources and testimonials designed to enhance communication and care for LGBT patients and their families. The guide’s five chapters address: leadership; provision of care, treatment and services; the workforce; data collection and use; and patient, family and community engagement.
See “Advancing Effective Communication, Cultural Competence and Patient- and Family-Centred Care for the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) Community: A Field Guide”, The Joint Commission, November 2011, at www.jointcommission.org.