(363) ETHICAL ASPECTS IN HEALTHCARE FOR TRANSGENDER PEOPLE. ANALYSIS AND IMPROVEMENT PROPOSALS

Transgender healthcare is an exponentially growing field nowadays.

In this study we analyze the main ethical conflicts detected in our area and the improvement proposals that we have formulated in this regard.

Apart from the social inequities that they usually suffer due to their condition, transgender people still today must face numerous prejudices and a huge disparity in their healthcare. This discrimination results in healthcare avoidance, increased substance use, risk of suicide, and poor general-behavioral-mental health.

Through a telephone survey carried out among professionals (doctors+nurses) in both primary/specialized care, possible ethical conflicts related to the management of transgender people occurred in the last year (January '22 to January '23) were consulted; cases were not only related to processes of affirmation of their gender identities, but regarding any health problem.

50 professionals were surveyed, counting 19 conflicts in the field of study.

The aspects that generated the most controversy were:

• Privacy/Confidentiality (7)

• Accessibility/Barriers (4)

• Inappropriate language (5)

• Administrative Aspects (3)

• No case of Abuse/Transphobia was recorded

1. Clinicians are responsible for identifying the ways that commonly perpetuate negative stereotypes in the treatment of transgender patients and avoiding stigmatization+discrimination of these people, promoting their comprehensive well-being.

2. Applying basic ethical principles (Autonomy, Beneficence, Non-Maleficence and Justice) or asking for help from experienced professionals are key in resolving all conflicts.

3. Main proposals to health professionals in order to diminish stigmatization and promote a normalization of transgender persons healthcare: make a more inclusive practice, acquire skills in this field, use appropriate language, develop communication skills, show sensitivity and respect.

Authors declare no conflicts of interest.