Toward an inclusive digital health system for sexual and gender minorities in Canada. (4th October 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Antonio, Marcy; Lau, Francis; Davison, Kelly; Devor, Aaron; Queen, Roz; Courtney, Karen
• Is Part Of: Journal of the American Medical Informatics Association. Volume 29:Number 2(2022)
• Page Start: 379
• Page End: 384
• Publication Date: 2021-10-04
• Subjects: Gender and sexual minorities -- gender -- sex -- and sexual orientation -- health information systems -- health equity -- cultural competency; Medical informatics -- Periodicals; Information Services -- Periodicals; Medical Informatics -- Periodicals; Médecine -- Informatique -- Périodiques; Informatica; Geneeskunde; Informatique médicale; Computer network resources; Electronic journals; 610.285
• DOI: 10.1093/jamia/ocab183
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1067-5027

Abstract

Abstract: Most digital health systems (DHS) are unable to capture gender, sex, and sexual orientation (GSSO) data beyond a single binary attribute with female and male options. This binary system discourages access to preventative screening and gender-affirming care for sexual and gender minority (SGM) people. We conducted this 1-year multi-method project and cocreated an action plan to modernize GSSO information practices in Canadian DHS. The proposed actions are to: (1) Envisage an equity- and SGM-oriented health system; (2) Engage communities and organizations to modernize GSSO information practices in DHS; (3) Establish an inclusive GSSO terminology; (4) Enable DHS to collect, use, exchange, and reuse standardized GSSO data; (5) Integrate GSSO data collection and use within organizations; (6) Educate staff to provide culturally competent care and inform patients on the need for GSSO data; and (7) Establish a central hub to coordinate efforts.