Pathways to Compassion: Mapping Gender-Affirming Healthcare Experiences

Project Description Overview: This research project examines how transgender and gender nonconforming (TGNC) individuals experience healthcare in religiously affiliated healthcare systems, particularly within Catholic institutions. The project aims to identify gaps, barriers, and best practices in gender-affirming care delivery through surveys and interviews with TGNC patients, their loved ones, healthcare providers, and community members. The goal is to develop a comprehensive workflow map that provides actionable recommendations for improving care, enhancing provider competency, and fostering more inclusive institutional policies. Ultimately, this project seeks to ensure that faith-based healthcare systems can better meet the needs of TGNC patients while delivering compassionate, patient-centered care. Target Participants: TGNC Individuals who have sought or are seeking gender-affirming care Family Members, Friends, and Loved Ones of TGNC individuals Healthcare Providers and Administrators, especially those working in faith-based or community-based clinics Community Members interested in gender-affirming care and TGNC health equity Study Objectives: Characterize gaps and barriers in gender-affirming care within religiously affiliated healthcare systems. Aims: Analyze survey responses which address Analyze interview results Integrate survey and interview results Examine existing care delivery models and provider training to identify areas for improvement. Summarize best practices that enhance accessibility, inclusivity, and patient-centered approaches to gender-affirming care. Develop a workflow map with evidence-based recommendations for optimizing care delivery within these systems.