Vanessa Goes to the Doctor

Patient Profile: Vanessa

  • Transgender WOC

  • Has had poor experiences with doctors and hospitals

  • Hesitant to see Dr. Miller, but chose him because he is within network

Negative Waiting Room Environment:

  • No forms of inclusivity involved (i.e., non-discrimination policies, LGBTQ+ support resources/posters, or any visible commitment to diversity)

  • In-take form was confusing and close-minded; e.g., only having “male and female” as options, and didn’t provide a section for Vanessa to list out her preferred name

    • This caused Vanessa to feel confused (i.e., “how truthful do I have to be?”, “do I need to lie?”, “what do I put?”)

  • Micro-aggressed and patronized by the secretary; “Since Robert is your real name, we will be using that for your appointment.” This further invalidated her identity and perpetuated feelings of discomfort in an already distressing environment

  • Dr. Miller called out “Robert Shepard” in front of the whole room, leaving Vanessa to feel exposed as her deadname was brought up in the waiting room

Positive Waiting Room Environment:

  • Forms of inclusivity are posted over the wall (non-discrimination policies, gender identity/sexual orientation guidelines, LGBTQ+ posters/stickers/media, and supportive resources) to create a welcoming atmosphere for all patients.

  • In-take form includes LGBTQ+ friendly options (i.e., space for preferred and legal name, pronouns, diverse relationship statuses and options for gender identity/sexual orientations, allowing patients to express their true selves comfortably)

  • No micro-aggressions from the secretary and doctor. Dr. Miller corrected himself when he accidentally used “Mr.” instead of “Ms.”

Negative Intake Interview:

  • Dr. Miller asked invasive and inappropriate questions that made Vanessa feel uncomfortable, such as her personal life choices and medical history in detail without establishing rapport first

  • When Vanessa was explaining her gender identity and sexual orientation to Dr. Miller, he immediately interjected and suggested that Vanessa see’s other professionals such as an endocrinologist

  • Dr. Miller has not expressed a willingness to learn or to grow as a person in his practice

Positive Intake Interview:

  • Dr. Miller is attempting to establish a rapport with Vanessa by asking if she prefers more feminine pronouns and labels (i.e., Ms.)

  • Dr. Miller apologized and acknowledges his mistake in calling her the wrong pronouns in the waiting room

  • Dr. Miller asked direct and appropriate questions to Vanessa, such as, “are you seeing a clinic for hormonal supplements?” and “why did you come to this clinic today?”

  • Dr. Miller was honest, direct and understanding. He stated that he has taken care of many LGBTQ+ patients but hasn’t given hormonal/gender affirming therapies before

  • Dr. Miller has expressed a willingness to learn

  • Encouraged Vanessa to get tested for HIV and has explained to her as to why testing for HIV is important as a trans-person

Conclusion:

  • Vanessa was relieved to receive Dr. Miller's support, feeling more empowered to take charge of her health and well-being as she navigates this critical aspect of her life and is now considering regular check-ups to ensure ongoing health monitoring and early detection of any potential issues.