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Volume 3
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Issue 2

Promoting Inclusivity within an LGBTQ+ Clinic in Southern Connecticut

By:
Kurtulann
Baig
ABSTRACT The purpose of this study is to examine strategies for improving healthcare outcomes and experiences for LGBTQ+ patients within a healthcare clinic in southern Connecticut. Access to appropriate health care often leads to insufficient health outcomes for LGBTQ+ individuals. Assessing the effectiveness of surveying LGBTQ+ patients at this health clinic, so that changes can be made to make it more welcoming for those who identify as LGBTQ+. Health care providers at this clinic will receive a training video on LGBTQ+ healthcare inclusion as part of this small-scale study. Health education and sensitivity training are essential to improving the experiences of LGBTQ patients and their outcomes. To overcome the healthcare disparities facing this population, it is necessary to advocate for indiscriminate, equitable health care for LGBTQ individuals. (Moran, 2021) These initiatives are to establish better relationships between LGBTQ+ identifying patients and providers at the clinic. The LGBTQ community suffers from higher rates of anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and suicide than heterosexual peers. In the absence of timely medical treatment, patients experience feelings of distrust and discrimination from healthcare providers. There is a clear need for quality improvement as heterosexual and LGBTQ people receive distinct types of health care and experience healthcare providers differently. (Moran, 2021) By combining small-scale research with community empowerment, this study aims to reduce health disparities faced by LGBTQ+ people in Southern Connecticut. Clinical staff at this clinic can ensure LGBTQ+ patients feel valued and supported by creating an inclusive, respectful, and understanding environment. An initiative-taking approach to health management, such as empowering LGBTQ+ communities to conduct self-examinations, can contribute to overall well-being. Lack of education on LGBTQ health and a culture of heteronormativity seem to be responsible for many issues of inadequate care. There is a need for further research on interventions that could facilitate the disclosure of sexual orientation and change heteronormative assumptions held by staff. The inclusion of LGBTQ issues in nursing and midwifery education or continuing professional development is recommended. (Stewart, et al., 2017) As part of the ongoing conversation on healthcare equity, this study emphasizes the importance of collaboration between healthcare providers and LGBTQ+ communities to achieve optimal health outcomes.
Published:
August 1, 2024
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At Charter Oak State College in New Britain, Connecticut, Dr. Valier serves as the lead faculty instructor where he has revolutionized the Master of Healthcare Administration program through his development and instruction of its cornerstone Capstone course. His innovative teaching methods and curriculum design reflect his deep understanding of both healthcare administration and information technology.

Dr. Valier earned his Doctor of Business Administration in Information Technology Management from Nova Southeastern University in Ft. Lauderdale, Flordia specializing in Health Information Systems. His groundbreaking dissertation, "A Primary Study of the Perception of Characteristics of Innovation during Pre-Diffusion Stage," earned recognition from the Association of Information Systems with a Best Paper Award nomination. This seminal work, published in the "Journal of International Technology and Information," demonstrates his significant contributions to understanding technology adoption in healthcare settings.

As an educator, Dr. Valier exemplifies the transformative power of engaged teaching. His approach combines rigorous academic standards with genuine enthusiasm for student success, creating an environment where complex healthcare concepts become accessible and meaningful. Students consistently praise his ability to bridge theoretical knowledge with practical application, a skill that aligns perfectly with Charter Oak State College's mission of providing relevant, career-focused education.

Contact Information:

Dr. Frank Marshall Valier

Healthcare Sciences and Technology Department

Charter Oak State College
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New Britain, CT 06051

Email:  fvalier@charteroak.edu

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