BACKGROUND
To enhance culturally competent care of transgender patients and diversify residency classes, dermatology residency programs should promote/provide sexual and gender minority (SGM) health training.
OBJECTIVE
In this study, we investigated the current state of gender-affirming care (GAC) among U.S. dermatology residencies.
METHODS
Between April-July 2023, we systematically examined the websites of all 141 dermatology residency programs, as well as their departments and associated institutions. Our search was conducted using department/residency program name plus relevant GAC-related terms. Authors independently categorized programs. Interrater reliability was calculated, with Cohen’s kappa ≥ 0.8 considered acceptable.
RESULTS
Among dermatology programs, 22/141 (15.6%) mentioned providing GAC. These programs were dispersed across the country, with the highest proportion (3/9) in New England. Involvement included providing or participating in multidisciplinary GAC clinics (22/22), directories of SGM health providers (19/22), lists of specific gender-affirming dermatologic procedures (12/22), websites listing GAC as a “service offered” (6/22), and dermatology department-led GAC programs (3/22). The majority of programs (119/141, 84.4%) did not mention participating in GAC. Of this group, 62 were affiliated with institutions with multidisciplinary GAC programs, while 57 were not.
CONCLUSIONS
Few program websites referenced GAC participation, underscoring existing challenges and potential opportunities to improve SGM health education. From the types of participation identified in this study, program directors may gain insights into simple, yet effective, strategies to enhance SGM health initiatives and promote inclusivity.