Development of an Occupational Therapy Health Promotion Group Protocol in a Gender Diverse Population

Abstract

The transgender and gender diverse (TGD) population faces systemic and individual discrimination, high rates of poverty and houselessness, and a frequent lack of social support. TGD patients also have higher instances of mental illness and neurodiversity which can be a barrier to accessing healthcare and establishing health behaviors. Considering these disparities and the complex medical needs of TGD patients, it is imperative to increase equitable access to affirming healthcare. Introducing an occupational therapy (OT) health promotion group in the safe and affirming environment of a gender health program within a public hospital addresses this need. To inform the development of a group that addressed the needs of both the patient population and implementation site, interview questions were created using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research, staff within the gender health program were interviewed, and data was analyzed and applied to create a group protocol and implementation plan. Content analysis produced the following themes: 1) valuing an interdisciplinary approach; 2) establishing an affirming environment; 3) increasing accessibility; 4) existing lack of patient resources; 5) emphasizing patient feedback, 6) developing life skills; 7) challenging beauracratic red tape; and 8) fostering community to improve health and wellbeing in the TGD community. These themes were used to develop a group protocol and delivery plan that would maximize implementation success within the site. This capstone is important for OTs seeking to integrate gender affirming health promotion groups within hospital settings and can provide insight for all OTs on factors that support affirming and equitable care.