Perceptions and Understanding of Transgender Patient Care: A Survey of Practicing Laryngologists

Abstract

ObjectivesTransgender individuals face significant health disparities including deficiencies in physician education, knowledge, and comfort with transgender health care. As the prevalence of the transgender population increases more individuals may seek gender‐affirming surgery. Herein, we present a survey study which presents data on (1) the current practice patterns, (2) the familiarity with, (3) the perception of, and (4) the future educational goals of transgender health care among laryngologists in the United States.MethodsA cross‐sectional survey study of practicing laryngologists in the United States.ResultsA total of 53 laryngologists participated in the study, with 50 (94.3%) coming from an academic practice. Survey response rate was 32.3% (54/167). The number of patients cared for and surgeries performed were significantly associated with self‐perceived overall competence (p < 0.001 and p < 0.001), surgical competence (p = 0.013 and p < 0.001), and comfort counseling patients on gender‐affirming surgeries (p < 0.001 and p < 0.001). Most obtained training through real‐world experience (n = 46, 86.8%), whereas only 11 (20.7%) had formal training in residency or fellowship. Although 37 (70%) of participants felt competent caring for transgender patients, 38 (72%) want to learn more about transgender care, and 49 (93%) support incorporating transgender care into otolaryngology residency/fellowship curricula.ConclusionThere is a need for an increased awareness of transgender healthcare issues to address disparities experienced by this diverse population. Many laryngologists report wanting to learn more about this developing part of our field and support incorporating transgender care into training. We attempt to spotlight the degree by which practicing laryngologists are familiar, competent, and comfortable with transgender care.Level of Evidence5 Laryngoscope, 134:3215–3219, 2024