Discrepancies in Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Patient Care and How Pharmacists Can Support an Evolved Practice

We live in an increasingly multicultural society with people from different ethnicities and beliefs. In recent years, we have witnessed a growing group of people who identify as having diverse sexual orientations and gender identities. Members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) community have historically been marginalized by the health care industry. The disproportionate prevalence of LGBT health concerns and cultural prejudices may be overlooked by many practitioners. As pharmacists, we are in an optimal position to affect meaningful changes in how we treat, counsel, and interact with all our patients, including with those whose sexual orientation or gender identity differ from ours. It is important for student and practicing pharmacists alike to receive adequate education and training that identifies the role of a pharmacist in LGBT health and fosters culturally competent and equitable patient care. Clinical and cultural competence should be reflective of inclusive pharmacy programs that embrace and incorporate LGBT health. The objectives of this commentary are to identify the role of a pharmacist in LGBT health, recognize specific concerns with mental and sexual health, describe gender-transitioning pharmacotherapy, and discuss the current stance of LGBT health in pharmacy education.