OR05-6 Designing a Gender Affirming Hospital: Patient Perspectives on Gender Inclusive Care

BACKGROUND: Studies have shown transgender and non-binary individuals encounter discrimination and harassment in medical settings leading to delays in seeking care and worse physical and mental health outcomes. Organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, published recommendations for medical centers to foster respectful and inclusive care through systems, environmental, and educational changes. However, it is unclear whether health systems are making these changes and what the impact may be for transgender and non-binary youth. OBJECTIVE: To explore perspectives of transgender and non-binary patients regarding the current state of gender inclusive care at our medical center and identify areas for improvement. DESIGN/METHODS: A qualitative study was conducted at a large academic center. Participants aged 13-21 years were recruited from the Center for Gender Affirming Care to participate in a semi-structured interview and demographics survey regarding their experiences across various clinical settings within the medical center. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Survey results were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Two independent coders reviewed the transcripts, developed a preliminary coding scheme, and reached consensus on any coding discrepancies. ATLAS.ti® was used for thematic analysis. RESULTS: Thirty participants completed an interview and survey. Mean age of participants was 17 years, with 30% identifying as female/trans female, 47% male/trans male, and 23% identifying as nonbinary or gender fluid. Several key themes emerged. Overall participants are satisfied with their care and attributed improvements to societal progress and systems/environmental changes. Parent advocacy and diversity among staff promoted positive and affirming experiences. However, participants identified personnel, systems, and environmental areas needing improvement including: 1) Provider training on use of pronouns, gender affirming terminology, and exam techniques, 2) Reliable and accurate display of chosen name and pronouns in the electronic medical record (EMR) and patient labels, and standardized check-in processes to prevent misnaming/misgendering, 3) Desire for more LGBTQ-inclusive décor and resources. CONCLUSIONS: While national recommendations were published more than 5 years ago, it is clear from our participants that not all recommendations have been implemented consistently across all clinical settings. Eliciting feedback from patients may provide tangible ways to improve care for this population. Presentation: Saturday, June 11, 2022 12:45 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.