These resources serve as a guide and support for healthcare professionals seeking to understand and address the impact of stigma and discrimination on patient care. Our materials cover best practices for creating inclusive healthcare environments, identification and mitigation of bias, and relevant research and literature on the topic.
Stigma and discrimination have long been recognised as barriers to accessing health services, engaging in healthcare and adhering to treatment. These in turn affect patients’ physical and mental health, quality of life, and personal and social relationships, resulting in poor health outcomes on a number of levels. It doesn’t have to be this way! Meet some people affected by stigma in the healthcare system, and learn what you can do to adopt an anti-discriminatory approach in your practice to positively impact the lives of your patients.
Research done by the Centre for Social Research in Health shows that while most healthcare workers privately hold a positive attitude towards people affected by blood borne viruses and people who inject drugs, along with trans, gender diverse people, and other members of the LGBTQ community, they regularly believe that others in their profession do not. Often they feel internal pressure to adopt stigmatising behaviours that they (incorrectly) believe are inherent in their peers. It's crucial to be aware of this, and call out stigma and discrimination wherever it appears in the healthcare system. Learn more about this research from leading experts in their profession below.
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The information provided on this website and its related websites and guidelines, and the resources made available by ASHM in any format or medium, are for general information purposes only and are not intended as medical advice or as a substitute for consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. While ASHM Health strives to provide accurate and current resources and information, the resources, information and guidelines made available by ASHM Health do not provide personalised medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Healthcare professionals should apply their clinical judgment and consider individual circumstances when using this information. To the extent permitted by law, ASHM Health disclaims all liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information provided. For specific medical concerns, please consult a licensed healthcare provider.
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