2023 AES: Hot Topics Symposium | Health Equity in Vulnerable Populations-Epilepsy Care in the LGBTQIA+ Population: Unique Challenges

Video Transcription

Video Summary

Dr. Emily Johnson, an Associate Professor of Neurology at Johns Hopkins, discussed the challenges faced by LGBTQIA individuals with epilepsy, highlighting disparities in care and the impact of these inequities on health outcomes. She emphasized the importance of gender-affirming treatments, which significantly reduce depression and suicidal ideation among transgender patients. Dr. Johnson noted that people with epilepsy are more likely to identify as LGBTQ than those without epilepsy, indicating a need for targeted research and inclusion. She underlined many transgender individuals' experiences of discrimination in healthcare settings and stressed the necessity for providers to create welcoming environments and respect preferred pronouns and names. Despite facing contentious political landscapes regarding gender-affirming care, she urged healthcare professionals to advocate for and support this vulnerable population. Dr. Johnson called for increased awareness and research into the intersection of epilepsy and LGBTQ identities to improve care delivery.

Asset Subtitle

Presenter: Emily Johnson, MD

Keywords

LGBTQIA

epilepsy

gender-affirming treatments

healthcare disparities

transgender discrimination

intersectional research