The well-being of lesbian, gay and bisexual physicians

The British Medical Journal has published a paper on the well-being of lesbian, gay and bisexual physicians (17 February 2001). Although the paper is based on research carried out in the US, the paper has important messages for doctors practising medicine in the UK and features a commentary on the UK perspective written by GLADD.

 GLADD Writes for BMJ about issues facing gay and lesbian doctors

GLADD has written a two page article for the Career Focus section of the British Medical Journal. The article considers coming out both as a lesbian or gay man and as a lesbian or gay doctor and reasons why lesbian, gay and bisexual doctors may try to conceal their sexuality from their colleagues. It also considers homophobia and what might be done to deal with it. The article also highlights the fact that many GLADD members are pursuing very successful careers in medicine and that they have experienced very few problems at work as result of their sexuality. The full article can be viewed at the BMJ [EXTERNAL] web site.

Gay & Lesbian Issues in British Medical & Dental Education: A Survey of British Medical & Dental Schools.

A report based on the GLADD Survey of the Deans of British medical and dental schools was submitted to the medical student section of the Journal of the American Medical Association.  It was accepted as an on-line letter, which forms part of a themed issue on "New Frontiers in Lesbian and Gay Men's Health".

 Mad, bad, and dangerous to know? Lesbians and gay men in the NHS - a threat, a challenge or an opportunity?

In a special edition of BMJ Careers two GLADD members discuss some of the difficulties which gay and lesbian doctors and medical students face and suggest some solutions. It is important that there is a culture change within the medical profession and that all doctors carefully consider they way in which they behave towards colleagues. Medical students, doctors in training and senior doctors all need to be given educational opportunities to learn about lesbian and gay issues which are relevant to the practice of medicine as well as how to deal more effectively and compassionately with colleagues.