Contraception for transgender and gender diverse individuals in pharmacy education: A cross-sectional survey and select resources.

INTRODUCTION

Pharmacists must be knowledgeable to care for all patients, including transgender and gender diverse individuals. Some institutions may have gaps in their pharmacy school curriculum specific to transgender contraceptive care. The current study evaluated and offered recommendations regarding the current state of transgender contraceptive care education within pharmacy curricula.

METHODS

An 18-question anonymous survey was developed and sent to members of the American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy - Pharmacy Practice section contact list. The survey collected baseline demographic characteristics and curricular information, including whether contraception for transgender individuals was taught and the modalities utilized. The institutional review board at Butler University reviewed and approved this survey project.

RESULTS

A response rate of 68% was obtained (99 of 144 institutions). Of those institutions responding, 39% reported that contraception for transgender individuals is taught as part of the curriculum at their respective institutions. In addition, a diverse set of teaching modalities were reported, such as didactic and team-based learning. Only six (4.3%) of the 138 individual faculty respondents indicated they obtained training focused on transgender care.

CONCLUSIONS

Approximately 40% of the responding institutions reported teaching about contraception care for transgender individuals. Based on this survey, the authors encourage institutions to assess their current curriculum and incorporate this topic accordingly. In addition, the authors recommend offering development opportunities for faculty and student pharmacists so that current and future health care professionals are best equipped to provide care for all patients in any practice.