05 November 2024
(Last updated: 14 Nov 2025 16:13)
I’ve always been passionate about equality and inclusion and work on a couple of projects outside of work with the LGBTQIA+ local community. I knew that I wanted to extend this into my role as a PCN Pharmacy Technician and when I was offered the opportunity to develop my own project I knew exactly what needed to be done. Since starting in Primary Care four years ago I had become increasingly aware of the health inequalities that the Transgender, non-binary and gender diverse patients face when accessing healthcare and the wider and long term impact this has on health outcomes.
Breaking Barriers: Transgender Cancer Screening Information Evening
I’m working on a longer-term project to improve access and dignity to healthcare for the local trans community and for the first event I linked up with our PCN Cancer Care Co-ordinator to organise an information evening on an often overlooked issue in healthcare: cancer screening for transgender individuals. I already had links with our local LGBTQIA+ friendly Sugar Daddy’s Café in Worcester, who are keen to work with us to see if we can provide a health hub, the Transgender Cancer Screening Information Evening aim was to educate, empower, and drive change within the healthcare system, promoting greater equality, diversity, and inclusion.
Setting the Stage
The event began with an introduction to the unique challenges faced by transgender individuals in accessing healthcare. Cancer screening, a crucial preventive measure, often becomes a daunting task for transgender individuals due to a lack of understanding, inadequate healthcare policies, and societal stigmas. The evening sought to address these barriers head-on.
A Closer Look at Transgender Healthcare Challenges
One of the event's highlights was a detailed presentation which illuminated the multifaceted issues that transgender individuals encounter in healthcare settings. Key points included:
- Lack of Awareness: Many healthcare providers lack the necessary knowledge about transgender health issues, leading to improper screenings and treatments.
- Discrimination and Stigma: Transgender individuals often face discrimination and poor bedside manners, making them hesitant to seek medical help.
- Inconsistent Guidelines: The absence of standardised guidelines for transgender cancer screening creates confusion and inconsistency in care. This is coupled with binary technology which results in trans patients being called for inappropriate screening or none at all.
Expert Talks
My colleague and I researched extensively into what cancer screening was appropriate for trans patients and for the various types or stages of transition: socially, medically and/or surgically. We also looked at whether transitioning increases cancer risk.One of the most important topics of the evening was providing tips on how to make booking and attending cancer screening a more dignified experience. This should not be the responsibility of the patient, but for now it was about empowering them to be able to ask for changes to be made or to confidently inform the healthcare professional what their needs are.
As with the wider population, cancer screening and diagnosing cancer early has longer term health outcomes and an intersectional approach is helping myself and my colleague, by linking with members of the trans community, to look at structures and practices that create barriers.
Interactive Q&A Sessions
The event also featured interactive Q&A sessions, providing attendees with the opportunity to ask questions and gain insights. These sessions were particularly impactful, as they allowed for open and honest dialogue about the fears, misconceptions, and real-life experiences of transgender individuals in healthcare settings.
Support Networks and Resources
Information on local and national resources and services available to the transgender community was another critical component of the evening. Attendees were provided with a comprehensive list of organisations and contacts that offer support and guidance. This network of resources aims to empower transgender individuals, ensuring they have access to the care and support they need.
Promoting Inclusivity Through Action
The Transgender Cancer Screening Information Evening was more than an educational event; it was a call to action. By addressing the specific healthcare needs of transgender individuals, the event promoted inclusivity and equality in several ways:
- Raising Awareness: By educating those that attended, the event helped to dismantle misconceptions and biases, fostering a more inclusive environment.
- Empowering Individuals: Providing transgender individuals with knowledge and resources empowers them to take control of their health and advocate for their rights.
- Advocating for Change: We have had discussions with practices around what practical steps they can take to ensure their trans patients are called for appropriate cancer screening and offered to support them with this.
The Ripple Effect on Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion
The impact of the Transgender Cancer Screening Information Evening extends beyond the walls of the café. It serves as a catalyst for broader societal change, promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion in several key areas:
- Healthcare: By addressing the unique needs of transgender individuals, the event sets a precedent for more inclusive healthcare practices. It encourages healthcare providers to adopt a more personalised and compassionate approach to care.
- Education: The event highlights the importance of educating healthcare professionals about transgender health issues. This knowledge is crucial for providing competent and empathetic care. By promoting the event as well as talking to colleagues about the project, others have become aware that they need to think about their own practices
- Community Support: By fostering a sense of community and support, the event helps to reduce the isolation and discrimination that transgender individuals often face.
A Personal Reflection
As a Pharmacy Technician presenting the Transgender Cancer Screening Information Evening, I can reflect on the experience with a sense of accomplishment and hope. This event was a pivotal moment in our journey towards a more inclusive healthcare system. It's about more than just raising awareness; it's about sparking real change. We need to ensure that everyone, regardless of their gender identity, has access to the care they deserve. As a Pharmacy Technician I also feel it has been a superb opportunity to showcase what we can achieve and the wider impact we can have, and the initiatives we are able implement; we look beyond the medication and take an holistic, person-centred approach to improving both outcomes and experiences.
The Path Forward
The success of the Transgender Cancer Screening Information Evening is a testament to the power of education and advocacy. Moving forward, it is crucial to continue these efforts and build on the momentum generated by the event. We have built on the relationship with the café and have made connections with members of the local trans community who are keen to work with us to develop our long term, wider project aims. We have also had a lot of support and interest from across the wider local healthcare network and one of our next steps we are considering is to repeat the information session to healthcare professionals across the ICB.
Conclusion
This is an area of healthcare that is only going to grow as more people feel empowered and supported to live authentically. During Transgender Awareness Week, culminating in Transgender Day Of Remembrance, we can reflect on the consequences health inequalities has had on the Trans Community and the lives lost due to it. As Pharmacy Technicians we can be at the forefront of a rapidly evolving area tackling health inequalities. The journey towards equality, diversity and inclusion is ongoing, this is just the start for us. It also highlights that as Pharmacy Technicians we can create a future where healthcare is inclusive and equitable for all.
Ethan French
Lead Pharmacy Technician – Worcester City PCN
paule.french@nhs.net