#gender disparity in healthcare

[variousqueerthings]

me and my mum were listening to danish news about how rigshospitalet (basically the largest hospital in denmark) was cutting back on costs by no longer covering the costs of tattooing nipples on breast-cancer cis women patients who have had breast re-construction, which is paid by tax payer money/free on the hospital

and that's all a discussion about gender reaffirming care!

whether or not the nipple counts as "distressing enough" is a thing I won't get into (I am personally getting mine removed -- opposite gender affirming care!!! same-but-different) -- what is interesting here to me, is firstly that what is being argued -- the big fascinating hypocrisy at the centre -- is notably not whether or not cis women need to prove a significant amount of psychological distress by speaking to psychiatrists and jumping through segregated healthcare hoops

and yet in denmark trans people do have to do this in order to access care -- not to the same amount as in some countries (notably it is done at the hospitals, but as far as I'm aware it's only the two main hospitals in Denmark that offer it, and it's not legal to go private within the country), but that is still the process and was until not-so-many-years also including forced sterilisation

the idea that a cisgender woman might feel significant gender-based distress at not having breasts was not in question in the discussion my mum and I were listening to

the other thing that is interesting is that the person at the rigshospitalet who was arguing that the nipples was too much cost was a cis dude. and of course cis dudes can have breast-cancer, but I have a feeling this guy was not speaking from that kind of thinking + of course the weight of "being a woman who has breasts that look like people think breasts should look" is an issue that he would never have to deal with, and so there was indeed an example there of a doctor who was not taking cis women's dysphoria seriously and arguing a (partial) rolling back of care on this basis

to what extent do cis women have to contend with looking "enough" like a woman because of misogyny? to what extent can one argue the dysphoria they feel is an innate idea of the self that doesn't match with what they see? to what extent is it a reaction to a different traumatic event (the scars a reminder of having been sick)? to what extent is there a cultural disgust against scarring that ought to be unlearned?

I'd argue that for the particular question of whether they deserve the care right now, those questions aren't going to help. offer the care and we can dismantle harmful notions about "correct" womanhood next to it (putting the ball in the court of a far bigger sandpit of societal work we need to do), and at the same time be cognizant of how that hits trans women 100 times over just for existing and having to perform hyper-femininity or else it doesn't count but is also demonised for being a performance, and in a different-but-similar way hits anyone who is assigned female at birth who is trying to build a space of non-conformity and/or masculinity and being scrutinised for "always" being a female while also being masculine traitors (just look at responses to elliot page) (just look at butches regardless of AGAB full stop)

I am supportive of cis women (and cis men) receiving gender affirming care. now they need to be supportive of me and mine receiving the same

[spartanmemesmedical]

Access to Abortion Care: A Human Rights Perspective

Introduction:Abortion remains a contentious issue globally, with complex implications for public health, human rights, and social justice. This assignment delves into the multifaceted aspects of abortion care, emphasizing its significance in promoting comprehensive healthcare, human rights, and gender equality. Overview:The World Health Organization (WHO) defines health as a state of complete…

[heeyounghub]

Advancing Equity & DEI in HR Strategy for Female Healthcare Professionals

Solving Persistent Healthcare Workforce Issues: Advancing Equity & DEI in HR Strategy for Female Professionals

Therefore, as healthcare systems and organizations move towards creating more inclusive environments, reassessing traditional leadership pathways becomes paramount. Recognizing the value of home care experiences, especially in the context of special needs or medical care and equating them with significant societal contributions like military service can be a transformative step. It not only…

[greenthestral]

Unleashing the Power of Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being for a Thriving World

In our quest for a better world, one of the most fundamental goals we must strive for is Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being. Recognized as a crucial part of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Goal 3 aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages. This ambitious goal encompasses a wide range of factors, including disease prevention, access to healthcare, mental health, and the promotion of healthy lifestyles. By addressing the challenges and opportunities presented by Goal 3, we have the potential to transform societies, empower individuals, and create a healthier and more prosperous world.

The Importance of Good Health and Well-being

Good health and well-being serve as the foundation for individuals, communities, and nations to thrive and prosper. When individuals enjoy good health, they are more equipped to actively participate in their communities, pursue education, and engage in productive work. Healthy individuals have the energy, physical strength, and mental resilience to contribute meaningfully to society. They can be more productive, innovative, and creative, leading to overall progress and development.

Conversely, poor health poses significant challenges to individuals and society as a whole. When individuals suffer from ill health, their ability to contribute to their communities becomes constrained. Limited physical capabilities, chronic illnesses, and mental health issues can hinder their participation in various aspects of life, including education, employment, and social activities. This not only diminishes their own potential but also limits the overall productivity and growth of communities and nations.

Moreover, the impact of poor health extends beyond individual well-being and has broader socio-economic implications. Inadequate health systems, prevalence of diseases, and lack of access to healthcare services can hamper economic growth and exacerbate existing inequalities. When a significant portion of the population is burdened by illness, it leads to increased healthcare costs, reduced workforce productivity, and higher rates of absenteeism. The consequences of poor health ripple through society, hindering progress and perpetuating cycles of poverty and inequality.

Recognizing the significance of good health and well-being, Goal 3 of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) places a strong emphasis on ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all at all ages. It acknowledges that achieving good health is not only a moral imperative but also a strategic investment in human capital and sustainable development.

By investing in healthcare infrastructure, disease prevention, and health promotion initiatives, nations can lay the groundwork for a healthy and productive population. Accessible and affordable healthcare services, including preventive care, vaccinations, and treatment options, play a crucial role in reducing the burden of diseases and improving overall health outcomes. Strengthening health systems and ensuring universal healthcare coverage is not only a matter of justice but also a smart investment in the well-being and economic stability of a nation.

Promoting good health and well-being is not limited to physical health alone. Mental health, often overlooked or stigmatized, is an integral component of overall well-being. Mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, and stress, can significantly impact an individual's quality of life and ability to function effectively. By prioritizing mental health, providing access to mental health services, and fostering supportive environments, societies can create conditions that enable individuals to thrive holistically.

Furthermore, achieving Goal 3 requires addressing the root causes of health disparities and inequalities. Socioeconomic factors, including income inequality, education, and social determinants of health, can significantly influence an individual's health status. Vulnerable populations, such as women, children, older adults, and marginalized communities, are often disproportionately affected by health inequities. To achieve good health and well-being for all, it is essential to implement policies and programs that specifically target these groups and reduce disparities.

Technology and innovation also play a vital role in advancing Goal 3. The integration of digital health solutions, telemedicine, wearable devices, and data analytics can enhance healthcare delivery, improve access to services, and facilitate preventive care. These advancements have the potential to bridge geographical barriers, reach remote populations, and empower individuals to take control of their health. By harnessing the power of technology and encouraging further innovation, we can overcome challenges in healthcare delivery and maximize the potential for good health and well-being worldwide.

Good health and well-being are not only essential for individuals to flourish but also for communities and nations to thrive. By prioritizing Goal 3 and investing in disease prevention, access to healthcare, mental health support, healthy lifestyles, and addressing inequalities, we can create a society where everyone has the opportunity to lead a healthy and fulfilling life. Achieving good health and well-being is not just a moral obligation; it is a strategic investment in human capital and sustainable development that will pave the way for a brighter and more prosperous future.

Disease Prevention and Universal Healthcare

At the heart of Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being lies the fundamental objective of disease prevention and ensuring access to quality healthcare for all individuals, regardless of their socio-economic background. This objective encompasses a range of strategies and initiatives aimed at reducing the burden of diseases, improving health outcomes, and promoting overall well-being.

Effective disease prevention is a cornerstone of achieving good health. Immunization programs have proven to be one of the most successful public health interventions, preventing millions of deaths each year from vaccine-preventable diseases. Through vaccination campaigns, individuals are protected from diseases such as measles, polio, hepatitis, and influenza. Immunization not only safeguards individual health but also contributes to herd immunity, reducing the overall transmission and impact of infectious diseases within communities.

Furthermore, clean water and sanitation initiatives play a crucial role in disease prevention. Access to safe drinking water and proper sanitation facilities is essential for preventing waterborne diseases, such as cholera, typhoid, and diarrhea. Improved sanitation practices, including the provision of adequate toilets and waste management systems, help minimize the spread of pathogens and promote better hygiene practices.

In addition to disease prevention measures, health education campaigns are essential for promoting awareness and empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health. These campaigns provide valuable information about disease prevention, early detection, and healthy lifestyles. By educating communities about the importance of hygiene, nutrition, sexual and reproductive health, and other health-related topics, individuals can take proactive steps to protect themselves and their families from diseases.

Universal healthcare coverage is a crucial aspect of Goal 3, ensuring that everyone has access to essential healthcare services without facing financial hardships. It means that individuals should be able to access healthcare when needed, without fear of incurring catastrophic expenses that could push them into poverty. Universal healthcare coverage encompasses a broad range of services, including preventive care, primary healthcare, emergency care, essential medications, and specialized treatments.

Achieving universal healthcare coverage requires a comprehensive approach that addresses both financial and non-financial barriers to accessing healthcare. Governments and policymakers must work towards developing robust healthcare systems that are accessible, equitable, and efficient. This involves establishing healthcare facilities, training healthcare professionals, ensuring the availability of essential medicines and technologies, and implementing health financing mechanisms that protect individuals from financial hardships.

The importance of disease prevention and access to quality healthcare for all cannot be overstated. Timely access to healthcare services enables early detection and treatment of diseases, reducing the burden on individuals and society. It also promotes preventive care, which focuses on addressing risk factors and promoting healthy behaviors to prevent the onset of diseases.

Moreover, universal healthcare coverage contributes to reducing health inequalities. It ensures that individuals from all socio-economic backgrounds, including marginalized populations, have equal opportunities to access healthcare services. By addressing disparities in healthcare access, we can work towards creating a fairer and more just society, where everyone has the chance to live a healthy and fulfilling life.

Disease prevention strategies, clean water and sanitation initiatives, and health education campaigns are crucial components of achieving Goal 3. These measures help reduce the burden of communicable diseases and improve overall health outcomes. Additionally, ensuring universal healthcare coverage is vital to guarantee that everyone has access to essential healthcare services without facing financial hardships. By prioritizing disease prevention and working towards universal healthcare coverage, we can lay the foundation for a healthier and more equitable society, where good health and well-being are attainable for all.

Mental Health and Well-being

While the focus on physical health is essential, it is crucial to recognize that mental health and well-being are equally significant components of Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being. Mental health issues affect millions of people worldwide, cutting across age, gender, and socioeconomic boundaries. However, these issues often go unnoticed, undiagnosed, or stigmatized, resulting in individuals suffering in silence and without appropriate support.

Promoting mental well-being requires a multifaceted approach that addresses both the societal and individual aspects of mental health. Firstly, it is vital to destigmatize mental health conditions and raise awareness about the prevalence and impact of mental illnesses. Challenging misconceptions and educating the public can help dismantle the barriers that prevent individuals from seeking help and support.

Integrating mental health into healthcare systems is another crucial step in promoting well-being. Mental health services should be accessible, affordable, and integrated into primary healthcare settings. This integration allows for early identification, intervention, and treatment of mental health conditions, ensuring that individuals receive the support they need in a timely manner.

Mental health promotion should extend beyond healthcare settings and encompass various sectors of society. Schools, workplaces, and community organizations play a significant role in fostering mental well-being. Implementing mental health programs in schools that focus on emotional literacy, stress management, and resilience building can equip young people with the tools they need to navigate the challenges of life.

In the workplace, creating a supportive environment that values employee well-being can significantly impact mental health outcomes. Encouraging work-life balance, providing mental health resources, and promoting open dialogue about mental health can help reduce stress and improve overall employee well-being.

Community organizations and grassroots initiatives also play a vital role in promoting mental health. Support groups, helplines, and community-based mental health services can provide individuals with a safe space to seek support and share their experiences. These initiatives foster a sense of belonging, reduce isolation, and promote social connections, which are crucial protective factors for mental health.

Investing in research and evidence-based practices is essential to inform mental health policies and interventions. By prioritizing research, policymakers can make informed decisions, allocate resources effectively, and develop targeted interventions that address the specific needs of diverse populations.

Furthermore, addressing the social determinants of mental health is integral to promoting mental well-being. Factors such as poverty, inequality, discrimination, and violence can significantly impact an individual's mental health. By addressing these social determinants, societies can create the conditions that support mental well-being for all.

Prevention is a key aspect of promoting mental health. By focusing on early intervention and prevention strategies, societies can reduce the incidence and severity of mental health conditions. This includes promoting healthy coping mechanisms, resilience-building programs, and providing support for individuals who may be at higher risk, such as survivors of trauma or individuals experiencing significant life transitions.

Creating a more compassionate and supportive society requires collaboration and the involvement of various stakeholders. Governments, healthcare systems, educational institutions, employers, communities, and individuals all have a role to play in promoting mental health and well-being. By working together, we can create an environment that fosters understanding, empathy, and support for individuals facing mental health challenges.

In conclusion, while physical health is essential, mental health and well-being must be equally prioritized in achieving Goal 3. Promoting mental well-being requires destigmatization, increased awareness, and the provision of accessible mental health services. By recognizing the importance of mental health and integrating it into healthcare systems, educational settings, workplaces, and communities, we can create a more compassionate and supportive society where individuals can thrive and achieve overall well-being.

Promoting Healthy Lifestyles

Promoting healthy lifestyles is a proactive and preventive approach to achieving Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being. Encouraging individuals to adopt healthy habits, such as engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining balanced diets, and avoiding harmful substances, can have a profound impact on their overall well-being and contribute to the prevention of various health conditions.

Regular physical activity is crucial for maintaining good health and preventing chronic diseases. Engaging in physical activities such as walking, jogging, cycling, or participating in sports not only improves cardiovascular fitness but also strengthens muscles and bones, enhances mental well-being, and reduces the risk of conditions like obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. Governments, educational institutions, and communities should collaborate to provide accessible recreational spaces, sports facilities, and promote physical education programs to encourage individuals of all ages to engage in regular exercise.

Balanced diets are essential for providing the body with the necessary nutrients for optimal functioning. Encouraging individuals to consume a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can promote overall health and prevent nutritional deficiencies. Governments can implement policies that support the availability and affordability of nutritious food options, while educational institutions can incorporate nutrition education into curricula to empower individuals with the knowledge and skills to make informed dietary choices.

Avoiding harmful substances, such as tobacco, excessive alcohol consumption, and illicit drugs, is crucial for maintaining good health and preventing a range of health problems. Governments play a significant role in implementing and enforcing policies and regulations to control the availability and marketing of harmful substances. Educational institutions and community organizations can provide education and awareness campaigns to highlight the detrimental effects of these substances and promote healthy lifestyle choices.

Collaboration between various stakeholders is essential to promoting healthy lifestyles effectively. Governments can enact policies that create supportive environments for healthy choices, such as implementing taxes on unhealthy products, restricting advertising of unhealthy foods to children, and creating smoke-free public spaces. Educational institutions can integrate health education into curricula, teaching students about the importance of physical activity, nutrition, and the risks associated with substance abuse. Communities can establish initiatives that provide access to nutritious food options, create safe spaces for physical activity, and organize community events that promote healthy lifestyles.

Furthermore, utilizing technology and digital platforms can be effective in promoting healthy lifestyles. Mobile applications, wearable devices, and online platforms can provide individuals with tools and resources to track their physical activity, monitor their diet, and receive personalized recommendations for healthy living. These technological advancements can facilitate behavior change, provide motivation and support, and connect individuals with a community of like-minded individuals striving for healthy lifestyles.

It is crucial to recognize that promoting healthy lifestyles is not just about individual choices but also about addressing the underlying social and environmental factors that influence behavior. Socioeconomic factors, such as income, education, and access to resources, can significantly impact an individual's ability to adopt and maintain healthy habits. Therefore, efforts should be made to reduce health inequalities and create equitable environments that enable and empower individuals from all backgrounds to make healthy choices.

Promoting healthy lifestyles is a proactive approach to achieving Goal 3. Encouraging individuals to engage in regular physical activity, maintain balanced diets, and avoid harmful substances can have a positive impact on their overall well-being and prevent various health conditions. Governments, educational institutions, and communities should collaborate to provide resources, education, and infrastructure that support healthy choices and facilitate behavior change. By fostering environments that promote and support healthy lifestyles, we can create a society where good health and well-being are accessible to all individuals.

Addressing Inequalities and Vulnerable Populations

Achieving Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being for all requires a comprehensive approach that addresses inequalities and reaches out to vulnerable populations. Various factors, including socioeconomic status, gender disparities, and geographic location, can significantly impact individuals' access to healthcare services and their overall health outcomes. In order to create a more equitable society and ensure that no one is left behind, it is crucial to implement policies and programs that prioritize the needs of marginalized groups, including women, children, older adults, and those living in poverty or conflict-affected areas.

Socioeconomic factors play a significant role in determining an individual's access to healthcare. Poverty and income inequality can limit individuals' ability to afford essential healthcare services, medications, and treatments. Lack of access to quality education and employment opportunities can further perpetuate health disparities. To address these issues, governments should implement policies that focus on poverty reduction, promote inclusive economic growth, and provide social safety nets to support vulnerable populations. It is crucial to ensure that healthcare services are affordable, and financial barriers are minimized, allowing individuals from all socioeconomic backgrounds to access the care they need.

Gender disparities also have a profound impact on health outcomes. Women and girls often face unique health challenges and may encounter barriers to accessing healthcare services. This includes limited access to reproductive health services, maternal healthcare, and gender-based violence. Governments and organizations should prioritize gender-responsive healthcare policies that address the specific needs of women and girls, including reproductive health services, access to family planning methods, and support for maternal and child health. Furthermore, efforts should be made to empower women through education, economic opportunities, and gender equality initiatives, as these factors have a direct impact on their health and well-being.

Geographic location is another critical factor that can influence access to healthcare. Individuals living in remote or rural areas often face challenges in accessing healthcare facilities, transportation, and specialized services. This issue is compounded in conflict-affected regions, where infrastructure and healthcare systems may be disrupted. To overcome these barriers, governments should invest in healthcare infrastructure in underserved areas, provide mobile healthcare units or telemedicine services, and implement strategies to attract healthcare professionals to remote regions. Additionally, humanitarian organizations and international efforts should prioritize providing healthcare assistance to populations affected by conflicts and disasters, ensuring that those in crisis situations receive the necessary support.

Addressing health inequalities and reaching out to vulnerable populations requires a multi-sectoral approach. Governments, healthcare systems, non-governmental organizations, and community-based initiatives must collaborate to develop targeted programs that address the specific needs of marginalized groups. This includes raising awareness about health issues, providing culturally sensitive healthcare services, and integrating community health workers who can bridge the gap between healthcare providers and underserved communities.

In addition to addressing immediate healthcare needs, it is essential to focus on long-term preventive strategies. This includes health promotion and disease prevention initiatives that target vulnerable populations. For example, promoting sexual and reproductive health education among adolescent girls can empower them to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. Implementing nutrition programs in schools and communities can address malnutrition and promote healthy eating habits among children. Moreover, focusing on geriatric care and providing specialized healthcare services for older adults can support healthy aging and enhance the quality of life for this population.

Achieving good health and well-being for all requires addressing inequalities and reaching out to vulnerable populations. Socioeconomic factors, gender disparities, and geographic location significantly impact individuals' access to healthcare and health outcomes. By implementing policies and programs that prioritize the needs of marginalized groups, we can work towards creating a more equitable society. It is imperative to address poverty, gender disparities, and geographic barriers to healthcare, while also focusing on preventive strategies and long-term health promotion. Through concerted efforts and collaborative actions, we can strive towards ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to lead a healthy and fulfilling life.

Technology and Innovation in Healthcare

Technology and innovation have the potential to transform healthcare and play a pivotal role in achieving Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being. The rapid advancements in technology, such as telemedicine, mobile health applications, electronic health records (EHRs), and artificial intelligence (AI)-based diagnostics, are revolutionizing healthcare delivery, making it more accessible, efficient, and cost-effective. By harnessing the power of these tools and promoting further innovation, we can bridge gaps in healthcare delivery and significantly enhance health outcomes on a global scale.

Telemedicine, or remote healthcare consultations, has emerged as a game-changer in healthcare accessibility. It allows individuals to consult with healthcare professionals from the comfort of their homes, eliminating the need for physical visits to healthcare facilities, especially in remote or underserved areas. Telemedicine facilitates timely access to medical advice, follow-up care, and specialist consultations. Moreover, it can improve healthcare outcomes by enabling early detection and intervention, particularly for chronic conditions that require ongoing monitoring and management.

Mobile health applications, or mHealth apps, have gained popularity as powerful tools for health promotion and disease management. These apps offer a wide range of features, including personalized health tracking, medication reminders, fitness monitoring, and access to educational resources. mHealth apps empower individuals to actively participate in their own healthcare, promoting self-management and preventive behaviors. Additionally, these apps can facilitate remote patient monitoring, allowing healthcare providers to track patients' vital signs and provide timely interventions when necessary.

The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) has transformed healthcare documentation and data management. EHRs enable the secure storage and exchange of patient information among healthcare providers, improving coordination and continuity of care. They streamline administrative processes, reduce medical errors, and facilitate evidence-based decision-making. EHRs also serve as valuable repositories of health data that can be utilized for research and population health management, leading to better understanding of diseases, treatment outcomes, and public health trends.

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning algorithms have shown great promise in healthcare diagnostics and decision support. AI-powered diagnostic tools can analyze medical images, such as X-rays and MRIs, with remarkable accuracy, aiding in early detection and diagnosis of diseases. AI algorithms can also analyze large datasets to identify patterns, predict outcomes, and personalize treatment plans. These advancements have the potential to revolutionize disease management, improve patient outcomes, and optimize healthcare resource allocation.

Furthermore, wearable devices and remote monitoring technologies are becoming increasingly prevalent in healthcare. These devices, such as smartwatches and fitness trackers, can monitor vital signs, physical activity levels, and sleep patterns. They provide valuable data for individuals to track their health and wellness, while also enabling healthcare providers to remotely monitor patients with chronic conditions, detect abnormalities, and intervene when necessary.

Innovation in healthcare technology is not limited to high-income countries. Low-cost and scalable solutions are being developed to address the unique challenges faced by resource-constrained settings. For example, mobile-based diagnostic tools, point-of-care testing devices, and low-cost telemedicine solutions are being deployed in underserved areas to improve access to healthcare and diagnostics.

However, it is important to acknowledge that technology is not a panacea for all healthcare challenges. It should be seen as a complementary tool that works in synergy with healthcare professionals' expertise and human touch. Ethical considerations, privacy, and data security must also be taken into account to ensure that technological advancements are used responsibly and to the benefit of patients.

To fully leverage the potential of technology and innovation in healthcare, it is essential to foster an ecosystem that encourages collaboration between healthcare providers, technology developers, policymakers, and researchers. Governments should support research and development initiatives, promote regulatory frameworks that facilitate the safe and effective deployment of healthcare technologies, and invest in digital infrastructure to enable widespread adoption.

Technology and innovation have the power to revolutionize healthcare and drive progress towards Goal 3. Advancements such as telemedicine, mobile health applications, EHRs, and AI-based diagnostics are already transforming healthcare delivery and improving access to quality care. By embracing and further promoting these technological tools, we can bridge gaps in healthcare delivery, enhance health outcomes, and bring us closer to achieving universal good health and well-being. It is crucial to foster an ecosystem that supports collaboration, research, and responsible use of technology to ensure equitable access to healthcare for all individuals, regardless of their geographic location or socioeconomic status.

Conclusion

Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being is a critical pillar of sustainable development that demands our attention, collaboration, and innovation. By working towards disease prevention, universal healthcare coverage, mental health support, healthy lifestyles, and addressing inequalities, we can build resilient communities and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to lead a healthy and fulfilling life. Together, let us unleash the power of Goal 3 and create a world where good health and well-being are within reach for all.

[fondwand]

I'm really panicked about the Cass Report sitch in the UK right now. I just have this horrible, sickened feeling. the articles proclaiming about the 'puberty blocker scandal' as if the report said that puberty blockers had been proven harmful, and not just that the report reoghtfully claimed that there hadn't been enough research.... which is basically the exact same situation as such medications as SSRIs, birth control in the NHS and yet those situations won't be used to bolster and reaffirm a hateful congregation of idiotic transphobes with too much power into dragging trans rights and healthcare in the UK through subsequent decades of incredibly harmful stagnation, fearmongering, and outright harm.

the Cass Report seems to me only to confirm what we know about almost every other sector of the NHS: that it's broken, underfunded, bogged down in failing beurocracy and not interested in preventative care as its mainline strategy. that's a position where the blame should be laid at the feet of the Conservative party, not at the feet of people who believe trans people should have adequate care which as at least a first line BELIEVES THEM

calling this a 'watershed' moment as if giving trans individuals gender affirming care is evil, while everyday within the NHS racism, medical misogyny, regional disparities between the North (edited add wales also) and Souths standards of healthcare which cause life expectancy to be lower, a mental health sector which is so utterly broken it can't actually help anyone. ..... etc etc etc are happening. its transphobia. its just hateful transphobia. transphobia which is now seen to be validated by idiots

I feel so sick and scared

[bolshefem]

if you think people are more empathetic to women than men you are straight up fucking delusional. men have proved themself almost INCAPABLE of empathy for women, and this is statistically and empirically supported. they are incapable of understanding that women have an internal life, do not see us as humans with emotions who exist external to them. look at the comments on a post of a man talking about self harm vs a woman. "men's mental health matters too🥺" "I'm proud of you" vs "attention whore" "sideways for attention downwards for results" "ugly bitch trying to get sympathy"

this is what happens for ANYTHING regarding sexual assault, mental health, suffering, trauma.

or an overweight man vs woman "keep your head up king👑" "you got this bro, I believe in you" "these women don't deserve you." (like totally unprompted not discussing relationships) Or often no comments on his weight at all if he's not talking about it. For a woman, no matter WHAT she is posting about "landwhale" "starve yourself" "put down the burger" "kys fat b*tch" and the most vile and insanely cruel comments The amount of threads and forums dedicated to eviscerating degrading and insulting overweight women on places like lolcow and kiwi farms and just social media in general and I genuinely have never seen one for a man. Same thing with things like facial deformities, the comments are unbelievably cruel to these women.

the level of vitriol is not even remotely comparable, and I don't even think it's mostly a double standard. I think they just lack the capacity to feel empathy towards women and perceive them as human and capable of feeling pain. Things are solely perceived in how they relate to them and thought to be performances for men. Women exist to serve them and if they don't give them a boner they don't deserve to be alive. If something, no matter how innocuous, pisses them off in the slightest they don't have a single qualm because they just don't view them as real people and full human beings with internal lives. women having emotions is inherently manipulative, anything they say or do is a performance for men. And like look at things such as the gender credibility gap https://www.tedxmilehigh.com/gender-credibility-gap/ Women are systematically less believed as witnesses in a courtroom, reporters, academic authorities, in claims of sexual assault, discrimination, or harassment.*

Women's reports of pain symptoms are less likely to be believed by doctors, and they are staggering more likely to not receive proper medication, go undiagnosed and untreated. Women are 32% more likely to die post-op if their surgeon is a man. "Womens' pain not taken as seriously as mens' pain. Researchers found that when male and female patients expressed the same amount of pain, observers viewed female patients' pain as less intense "(sciencedaily.com/releases/2021/04/210406164124.htm) "Nearly three-quarters of cases where a disease primarily affects one gender, the so-called “men's diseases” are overfunded, while the “women's diseases” are dramatically underfunded."

https://www.concernusa.org/story/gender-bias-in-healthcare/ https://www.washingtonpost.com/wellness/interactive/2022/women-pain-gender-bias-doctors/ https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/gender-bias-in-medical-diagnosis#how-does-it-affect-diagnosis https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/women-and-pain-disparities-in-experience-and-treatment-2017100912562 I could literally go on on this topic forever. The gender empathy gap is a form of epistemic violence against women.

* "Suicidal behaviour and self-harm in women can be viewed by family, health professionals and the community as attention-seeking, manipulative and non-serious, which can negatively influence how young women are treated." (Curtis, 2016) *Men with overweight tend to be perceived as wise or experienced, while women's credibility tends to decrease with excess weight... women seem to experience higher levels of weight stigmatization than men, even at lower levels of excess weight (Flint et al., 2016)

*Women are at greater risk for weight/height discrimination than men (Puhl et al, 2008)

*so many papers on this but "Across the board, women are perceived to be less credible than men. Especially women’s testimonies of rape and sexual harassment are widely trivialized and disregarded, even though reports of sexual abuse are not more likely to be false than reports of other crimes" (Schreurs, 2020) more like Mack, 1993

[mahamatra-cyno]

Is gay marriage legal in Sumeru? Would you face any issues with the Academiya for dating or marrying a man?

Sumeru is a nation focused almost entirely on the pursuit of knowledge and understanding. As such, it is well within our interests as a nation to reject nonsensical traditional views and policies. Especially now, with the corrupt sages removed from power, that has been realized in its entirety. Akademiya is expanding to the desert, healthcare is free, artistic expression is encouraged. Even then, all of the previously existing stereotypes and biases have stemmed from academic disparities, misconceptions, and influence from the people in power—rather than mass discrimination for sexuality or gender, like some other nations might face. This is not to say that some people don’t experience those biases on an individual level—they just aren’t systemic. The discrimination against desert dwellers, on the other hand, are an entirely different issue, and will likely take years to deconstruct.

In terms of gay marriage, I cannot recall such a preventative law existing in the time that I’ve been General Mahamatra, but if it had, I have no doubt that either Lesser Lord Kusanali or Alhaitham himself would have eradicated it from our legislature by now. You are free to marry who you want in Sumeru.

[why-am-i-not-fictional]

Things to script - nature or status of realities

This is something I recently started inputting into my DRs to make them better and safe. I got much help from ChatGPT too to categorize all these things. I wanted to share it with you guys too :) feel free to use anything for your scripts. Happy Shifting!!!

All of the below discriminations does not exist in any of my DRs

Misogyny

Racism

Homophobia

Transphobia

Classism

Ableism

Ageism

Xenophobia

Islamophobia

Anti-Semitism

Colorism

Nationalism

Casteism

Environmental injustice

Sexism

Sizeism

Religious discrimination

Ethnic discrimination

Discrimination based on immigration status

Discrimination based on language

Discrimination based on nationality

Discrimination based on indigenous status

Discrimination based on political beliefs

Discrimination based on marital status

Discrimination based on parental status

Discrimination based on veteran status

Discrimination based on HIV/AIDS status

Discrimination based on neurodiversity

Discrimination based on mental health status

Discrimination based on physical appearance

Discrimination based on cultural practices

Discrimination based on regional or geographical origin

Discrimination based on caste or social status

Discrimination based on educational background

Discrimination based on housing status

Discrimination based on criminal record

Discrimination based on economic status

Discrimination based on access to healthcare

Discrimination based on access to education

Discrimination based on access to employment opportunities

All of the below issues have been solved many years ago and they do not exist in the times of any of my DRs

Poverty

Economic inequality

Environmental degradation

Climate change

Pollution

Deforestation

Political instability

Armed conflicts

Civil wars

Humanitarian crises

Global health challenges

Infectious diseases

Pandemics

Inadequate healthcare systems

Lack of access to essential medicines

Educational disparities

Limited access to quality education

Illiteracy

Child labor

Child marriage

Gender inequality

Women's rights violations

Child labor

Human trafficking

Forced labor

Modern slavery

Corruption

Lack of transparency

Ineffective governance

Authoritarian regimes

Suppression of free speech

Violations of human rights

Arbitrary detention

Torture

Persecution

Indigenous rights violations

Land grabs

Cultural appropriation

Technological and digital divides

Ethical dilemmas in technology

Privacy concerns

Data breaches

Cybersecurity threats

Food insecurity

Malnutrition

Water scarcity

Access to clean water

Sanitation issues

Homelessness

Housing affordability

Urbanization challenges

Aging population

Elder abuse

Mental health stigma

Lack of access to mental health services

Substance abuse

Addiction

Disability rights violations

Accessibility barriers

Stigmatization of disabilities

LGBTQ+ rights violations

Discrimination based on sexual orientation

Discrimination based on gender identity

Family rejection

Reproductive rights violations

Access to reproductive healthcare

Maternal mortality

Child mortality

Access to clean energy

Energy poverty

Fossil fuel dependence

Renewable energy transition challenges

Wildlife conservation

Endangered species protection

Animal rights violations

All the DRs I shift to are abundant of the following things 

Compassion

Empathy

Cooperation

Collaboration

Sustainability

Environmental stewardship

Peacebuilding

Conflict resolution

Dialogue

Reconciliation

Education

Knowledge-sharing

Critical thinking

Cultural diversity

Cultural respect

Inclusivity

Equality

Justice

Ethical leadership

Integrity

Accountability

Service to others

Health promotion

Well-being

Healthcare access

Mental health support

Social support systems

Innovation

Creativity

Social justice

Fairness

Equity

Human rights

Freedom of expression

Freedom of assembly

Democratic governance

Rule of law

Transparency

Accountability mechanisms

Community empowerment

Grassroots activism

Civic engagement

Volunteerism

Philanthropy

Sustainable development

Responsible consumption

Renewable energy adoption

Conservation

Biodiversity protection

Animal welfare

Gender equality

Women's empowerment

LGBTQ+ rights

Disability rights

Indigenous rights

Racial equity

Anti-discrimination policies

Social welfare programs

Poverty alleviation

Economic empowerment

Access to education

Access to clean water

Sanitation infrastructure

Housing rights

Food security

Global cooperation

International aid and development

Humanitarian assistance

Conflict prevention

Diplomacy

Multilateralism

Solidarity

Tolerance

Forgiveness

Resilience

All of the DRs I shift into are currently successfully overcoming the following challenges as they rise

Sustaining Progress: Maintaining the momentum of positive change and preventing regression into previous discriminatory attitudes and practices.

Ensuring Equity: Addressing lingering disparities and ensuring that the benefits of progress are equitably distributed across all communities.

Adapting to Changing Circumstances: Remaining flexible and responsive to evolving societal needs, dynamics, and challenges over time.

Balancing Interests: Navigating competing interests, values, and priorities among diverse stakeholders in society.

Preventing Backlash: Mitigating potential backlash from individuals or groups who may resist or oppose efforts to eliminate discrimination and promote positive change.

Addressing Unforeseen Consequences: Anticipating and addressing unintended consequences or side effects of interventions aimed at addressing societal issues.

Managing Complexity: Dealing with the complexity of interconnected social, economic, political, and environmental systems, which may require interdisciplinary approaches and collaboration.

Maintaining Engagement: Sustaining public engagement, participation, and support for ongoing efforts to promote equality, justice, and well-being.

Ensuring Accountability: Holding individuals, institutions, and governments accountable for upholding principles of fairness, transparency, and ethical conduct.

Resisting Entrenched Power Structures: Challenging and dismantling entrenched power structures, systems of privilege, and institutionalized forms of discrimination.

Addressing Global Challenges: Collaborating internationally to address global challenges such as climate change, inequality, and conflict, which require coordinated action across borders.

Cultural Sensitivity: Respecting and accommodating diverse cultural norms, values, and perspectives while promoting universal principles of human rights and equality.

Managing Resources: Efficiently allocating resources and managing competing demands to sustain progress and address ongoing needs in society.

Promoting Inclusivity: Ensuring that marginalized or vulnerable groups are included in decision-making processes and benefit from positive changes in society.

Building Trust: Fostering trust, cooperation, and solidarity among individuals, communities, and institutions to sustain positive social transformation.

Addressing New Challenges: Remaining vigilant and adaptive to emerging challenges and threats to equality, justice, and well-being in an ever-changing world.

[fernsnailz]

Opinion on Robots (2005)(movie)? Personally it is my movie of all time.

dude i LOVE robots it was one of my favorite movies as a kid. i actually think robots does a pretty good job of showing issues of class disparity and how capitalism contributes to it, and takes a pretty clear stance about accessible healthcare - all within a fictional world! it's not perfect, they solve everything through a big robot action scene and have a dance party at the end, but i think robots holds up pretty well all things considered and avoids the pitfall of shitty worldbuilding justifying prejudice. rodney copperbottom is also gender goals ngl

[robynochs]

Long COVID Is More Common in Bisexual and Trans People. The Reasons Why Are Complicated

"There is nothing inherent about being queer or trans that predisposes people to chronic illness, including long COVID. Yet the interlocking network of structural healthcare disparities that queer and trans people face — such as lower access to doctors or stigma regarding their gender or sexuality — could partly explain the higher rates, alongside other LGBTQ+ health disparities faced by the community."

[naturalrights-retard]

This IS a global Holocaust, and there is NO denying it; so we can't let "our free press," OR our governments, ignore, belittle or distort this overwhelming evidence

MARK CRISPIN MILLER DEC 2, 2023 All these studies are significant; but the first two here under “New Zealand” are especially important, so—please—share this compilation far and wide.

I. On excess deaths worldwide, declining life expectancy in the US, and the “global collapse of fertility” Excess deaths in 2023:

UNITED STATES An article, in a Reader’s Digest outlet called The Healthy, about a study finding a decline in life expectancy among American men, and—typically—ascribing it to several factors not including “vaccination” New Study: Life Expectancy for Men Declines in the U.S Due to Largely Preventable Deaths November 20, 2023

Bad news surfaced this week as research published by the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) revealed that in 2021, life expectancy in the U.S. decreased overall for both men and women for the second consecutive year, reaching just over 76 years. The situation is graver for men, as the average woman can expect to live to 79, while many men can only anticipate reaching 73. The gap between men and women in terms of life expectancy is the widest it has been since 1997, according to researchers from the University of California and Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health in Boston, Massachusetts, and the reasons why rates are dropping are also very concerning. The fact that women generally outlive men isn’t groundbreaking news; they’ve been doing so for over a century, partly due to better dietary choices and smoking cessation. “Across the world, women tend to live longer than men,” the study’s lead author, Brandon Yan, MD MPH, said to STAT. However, both genders tend to live longer in other countries like Japan and the UK, where many reach their 80th birthday or beyond. So what is different in the U.S.? While COVID-19 is partially responsible for the decrease in life expectancy in recent years, particularly for men who were more susceptible to the virus, it does not entirely explain the age-gender gap.

The authors of the study point out that men in the U.S. are also more prone to die from drug overdoses and suicide. “The opioid epidemic, mental health, and chronic metabolic disease are certainly front and center in the data that we see here,” mentioned Yan. He emphasizes that the concerning rise is connected to issues and conditions that are largely preventable. A significant aspect of the widening gender gap is attributed to the healthcare system’s failure to prioritize prevention over treating illnesses. “We have a healthcare system that is very advanced in treating illnesses and advanced disease. But for the most part…it is not very good when it comes to preventative care,” Yan noted. While the data doesn’t explicitly address it, the issues become even more pronounced when broken down by race. “We know that the disparity at baseline between men and women is much higher for Black Americans than it is for white Americans, for instance. And the interplay between gender and race is an important area for further study,” Yan added. Life expectancy for Black Americans overall is just over 70 years, but STAT mentions that the life expectancy for black men in the U.S. is just over 61 years, a startling eight years shorter than for Black women.

[allthebrazilianpolitics]

Ministers of Germany, Brazil, South Africa and Spain: why we need a global tax on billionaires

Finance chiefs say higher taxes for the super-rich are key to battling global inequality and climate crisis

When the governors of the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund convened for the spring meetings last week, it was all about the really big questions. What can the international community do to accelerate decarbonisation and fight climate change? How can highly indebted countries retain fiscal space to invest in poverty eradication, social services and global public goods? What does the international community need to do to get back on track towards reaching the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)? How can multilateral development banks be strengthened to support these ambitions?

There is one issue that makes addressing these global challenges much harder: inequality. While the disparity between the richest and poorest countries has slightly narrowed, the gap remains alarmingly high. Moreover, in the past two decades, we have witnessed a significant increase in inequalities within most countries, with the income gap between the top 10% and the bottom 50% nearly doubling. Looking ahead, current global economic trends pose serious threats to progress towards higher equality.

The multidimensional character of inequality is undeniable. Basic services such as healthcare and education are not equally available to all. Often, this inequality of opportunity is handed down from generation to generation. Social origins, gender, race or where people live are some of the factors that play a role in reproducing inequalities. Furthermore, high inequality harms economic development because it inhibits innovation and prevents people from developing their full potential. It is corrosive to democracy and weakens social cohesion. And where social cohesion is weak, there is less support for the structural reforms we will need to undertake in the coming years, such as the necessary transformation towards a net zero economy.

Fortunately, there is a growing global awareness of the importance not only of growth, but of sustainable and equitable growth. Increasing prosperity while tackling inequality within and across countries and generations, including entrenched race and gender inequalities, should not be at odds. Achieving truly sustainable growth lies in balancing three fundamental concerns: economic, social, and environmental.

Continue reading.

[justinspoliticalcorner]

Christopher Wiggins at The Advocate:

A federal appeals court has ruled that transgender students in West Virginia may play on sports teams that align with their gender identity. In a landmark decision on Tuesday, the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled against a West Virginia law that prohibited transgender girls from participating in girls’ sports teams, deeming it a violation of Title IX, which bars sex-based discrimination in education. The Associated Press reports that this ruling impacts the case of 13-year-old Becky Pepper Jackson, who has identified as a girl since the third grade and is undergoing puberty-blocking treatment.

According to the AP, in February 2023, an interim court decision prevented the state from barring Jackson from her middle school track and field team under this law. Judge Toby Heytens, in his ruling, emphasized that the so-called choice between not playing sports or playing on boys’ teams offered no genuine option. “B.P.J. has been recognized by her community and legally changed her name, and West Virginia has issued a birth certificate listing her sex as female,” Heytens wrote, supporting the view that denying her participation in girls’ teams was discriminatory. Lambda Legal, representing Becky, highlighted the discriminatory nature of the law. “West Virginia’s effort to ban one 13-year-old transgender girl from joining her teammates on the middle school cross country and track team was singling out Becky for disparate treatment because of her sex,” said Lambda Legal staff attorney Sruti Swaminathan. “That’s discrimination, pure and simple, and we applaud the court for arriving at this just decision,” she added.

[...] The ruling reflects broader national debates and legal battles over transgender rights in sports, healthcare, and public accommodations. This decision aligns West Virginia with states like Arizona, Idaho, and Utah, where similar bans have been temporarily blocked, while states like Alabama and Texas continue to enforce such prohibitions. The legal victory in West Virginia may influence other ongoing legal challenges across the United States. More than two dozen states have enacted similar laws targeting transgender participation in sports, and this ruling could serve as a precedent, potentially prompting reevaluation of these laws under Title IX considerations. Advocacy groups and civil rights lawyers are closely monitoring these developments, hopeful that the tide may turn in favor of inclusivity and equal rights for transgender athletes at the school level.

The 4th Circuit Court ruled in B.P.J. v. West Virginia that the state of West Virginia cannot ban trans students from playing on teams aligned with their gender identity, deeming the state's law (HB3293) on banning trans athletes a violation of Title IX.

[sophieinwonderland]

thought you would appreciate the data in this study, its a small sample size but, its nice to see it among the scientific literature, using the word plural, acknowledging endos leaving behind the structural model of dissociation, and advocating for a better understanding of plurals and dissociative trans people.

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S246874992300042X?dgcid=coauthor

thank you for the good work you do citing sources and combatting misinfo towards endos.

im traumagenic, but my partner is a tulpamancer, and i cant get over the hate they suffer.

good luck, and keep going strong ✌️

Thanks!

It's moments like this that I'm sad Sci-Hub doesn't work for articles past 2021. 😢

Even still, the introduction was interesting even if that's basically all that's available.

The first thing I check on a lot of these articles is just the authors.

And I'm happy to see that these look like mostly new names from reputable clinics and universities. As it concerns debates about endogenic plurality, I'm glad to have more people researching this across the field.

More acknowledgement by more people is incredibly vital.

Beyond that, I love that the connection between plurality and gender is being explored here with the goal of helping systems who are seeking gender-affirming care.

For those who identify as both transgender and plural, the likelihood of receiving affirming care is low. Medical and mental health care often does not meet the needs of the transgender community, frequently reinforcing stigma (Noonan et al., 2018; Rees, Crowe & Harris, 2020). People with dissociative symptoms also have trouble accessing mental health care (Nester, Hawkins & Brand, 2022). Providers’ implicit biases regarding both gender identity and plurality may contribute to these disparities, leading to non-affirming treatment (Price et al., 2022). There is movement toward a more inclusive, affirming approach to this population, one which does not start with an underlying assumption of pathology. One transgender and plural mental health care practitioner noted that dissociation for them was not unreal or pathological (Henkin, 1998). Ribáry, László, Demetrovics and Maraz (2017) interviewed six systems and concluded that, in this cohort, “most systems function relatively well in everyday life” (p.1). The 13 participants with DID in Hunter's study (2016) reported they preferred a client directed approach that honored their subjective experience. Yarbrough (2018) observed that many plural systems did not experience distress from the existence of other internal headmates, and recommended shared decision making among headmates when pursuing treatment. Rivera (2002) concluded that transgender clients with dissociation could “make reasoned choices and they could live relatively peacefully” (p. 51) about gender, asserting that while mental health clinicians should assess for DID, clinicians should not presume that dissociation precludes transgender clients from providing adequate informed consent for transition-related treatment.

I hope research like this helps will help better inform healthcare for systems. This is obviously specific to gender-affirming care but other care, but with luck it can impact result in research into other forms as well.

Added it to my new Studies and Research page.

Thanks again for sharing! 😁

[crossdreamers]

24% Of Transgender Adults Report Access To Care Has Been Disrupted By New Laws In The US

A Data For Progress poll shows that 24% of all US transgender adults have seen their care disrupted or discontinued. Erin in the Morning discusses the challenges faced by transgender adults in accessing healthcare services in a new article.

She highlights a Data for Progress study showing that 24% of transgender adults have encountered discrimination or lack of access to healthcare due to their gender identity.

The research underscores disparities in healthcare access for transgender individuals, including difficulties in finding transgender-friendly providers and insurance coverage limitations.

Her article emphasizes the need for improved healthcare policies and practices to address these disparities and ensure equitable access to healthcare for all individuals, regardless of gender identity.

Read the article here.

Some highlights from the study:

Nearly 2 in 3 Transgender Adults Say Quality of Life Has Gotten Worse for LGBTQ+ Americans in the Past Year

A Majority of LGBTQ+ Adults Say Recent Anti-LGBTQ+ Policies and Rhetoric Have Harmed Their Mental Health

Transgender Adults Are Concerned About Various Actions Leading to Discrimination or Harassment

Around 2 in 5 Transgender Adults Are Considering Moving Out of Their State as a Result of AntiLGBTQ+ Legislation

Transgender Adults Report More Negative Experiences in the Past Year Than LGBQ+ Adults Who Do Not Identify as Transgender

A Majority of Transgender Adults Report Having Heard Anti-Transgender Remarks in the Past Year

Photo: Wikimedia Commons (@Ted Eyten)