August 21, 2025

LGBTQ+ perspectives on kidney transplant care highlight areas for improvement

A recent study highlights the perspectives and priorities of LGBTQ+ people in the context of kidney transplantation, pointing to many ways the process could be improved. 

Policies around organ transplantation can result in unequal care for sexual and gender minority (SGM) patients, yet little research has been done to understand their experiences. To address this gap, Dr. Murdoch Leeies and colleagues interviewed 12 SGM participants with lived experience as transplant recipients, donors, or caregivers. The team then analyzed their responses for common themes.  

Participants reported many gaps in knowledge on matters related to providing care for SGMs. Many described having to research their own health issues and self-advocate for access to sexual and reproductive health services. They noted a need for better health care provider training and clearer policies to support SGM patients.  

Transgender participants reported some cases where gender-affirming hormone therapy was withheld or discontinued without their input, which they said was very harmful and undermined their autonomy.  

A key theme among many of the interviewees was the importance of shared decision-making between SGM patients and their care providers.