LGBTQIA+ Awareness: An Overview for Pharmacy Personnel

People who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transsexual/transgender, queer/questioning, intersex, or asexual (LGBTQIA+) are patients of your pharmacy. These patients include all races, all ages, and are from all socioeconomic classes. We all expect to feel safe, respected, and welcomed in our pharmacies, hospitals, and doctor offices, however this is not always the case for members of the LGBTQIA+ community. Though these individuals are from all walks of life there are still many barriers that inhibits access to inclusive, safe, and welcoming healthcare. The American Association of pharmacy technicians code of ethics defines a pharmacy technicians first consideration as ensuring the health and safety of the patient. In doing so, we must commit to being educated about the unique needs for each patient we interact with. This session will summarize appropriate terminology, basic communication strategies, and provide education on barriers to care faced by LGBTQIA+ individuals. Additionally participates will review ways to recognize inclusive environments for all patients.