Dr John Gilmore Discusses LGBTQ+ Healthcare Needs on RTÉ's Out and Proud Series
Thursday, 18 July, 2024
UCD's Dr John Gilmore, Assistant Professor in the School of Nursing, Midwifery, and Health Systems at UCD recently featured on a special episode of RTÉ's acclaimed Out and Proud series. The episode, hosted by Trevor Keegan, aired on 9th of July and focused on the pressing health and wellbeing needs of the LGBTQ+ community in Ireland.
Alongside a panel of experts, including Paula Fagan, CEO of LGBT Ireland, and clinical psychologist Anita Furlong, Dr Gilmore shared his invaluable insights and research findings. The episode provided a comprehensive look into the current state of LGBTQ+ healthcare in Ireland, highlighting both achievements and areas needing improvement.
Drawing from his research, Dr Gilmore discussed community preferences for LGBTQ+ healthcare in Ireland, emphasising the need for a more inclusive and responsive health system, especially in the area of primary care. His observations from a recent Fulbright exchange programme in the USA were particularly illuminating, as he explored various successful models of LGBTQ+ healthcare that could be adapted for use in Ireland.
“One of the key takeaways from my research and international experience is the critical importance of integrating sexual orientation and gender identity data into our health systems,” Dr Gilmore remarked during the programme. “This data is vital for understanding the specific health needs of the LGBTQ+ community and for developing tailored healthcare services that can effectively address those needs.”
Additionally, Dr Gilmore highlighted the progressive steps being taken by the School of Nursing, Midwifery, and Health Systems to incorporate LGBTQ+ health education into the undergraduate curriculum. “Educating future healthcare professionals about the unique challenges and needs of the LGBTQ+ community is essential,” he stated. “By embedding this knowledge in our curriculum, we ensure that our graduates are not only aware but also equipped to provide inclusive and compassionate care.”
The participation of Dr Gilmore in this programme underscores the commitment of the School of Nursing, Midwifery, and Health Systems to advancing healthcare for all communities. We are dedicated to fostering an environment of inclusion and excellence, preparing our students to meet the diverse needs of the populations they will serve.
About the School of Nursing, Midwifery, and Health Systems
The School of Nursing, Midwifery, and Health Systems at UCD is a leading institution dedicated to advancing healthcare through education, research, and clinical practice. We are committed to preparing our students to become compassionate, knowledgeable, and skilled healthcare professionals who can make a positive impact on the communities they serve.
About RTÉ's Out and Proud Series
RTÉ’s Out and Proud series, hosted by Trevor Keegan, celebrates and examines the lives, challenges, and achievements of Ireland's LGBTQ+ community. Through in-depth interviews and discussions, the series aims to promote understanding, acceptance, and equality for all.
This episode of Out and Proud aired on RTE radio on 9th of July 2024 and is available as a podcast on the RTE website (opens in a new window)here.