SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS: You should respond to at least two of your peers by ex

SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS:
You should respond to at least two of your peers by extending, refuting/correcting, or adding additional nuance to their posts. Your reply posts are worth 2 points (1 point per response.) Incorporate a minimum of 2 current (published within the last five years) scholarly journal articles or primary legal sources (statutes, court opinions) within your work. Journal articles should be referenced according to the current APA style (the online library has an abbreviated version of the APA Manual).
NO AI GENERATED WORK.
# 1
Health Care Disparities Gap in LGBTQ Community
LGBTQ community stands lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning (someone still exploring, queer or sometimes both) (CNN, 2019). A study done by the Center for American Progress finds that many LGBTQ people continue to face discrimination in their personal lives, in the workplace, in the public sphere, and in access to critical health care (CAP, 2020). The LGBTQ community remains underexamined as the ongoing COVID-19 health and economic crisis continues (CNN, 2019). Individuals part of this community continue to face ongoing discrimination due to their sexual orientation and gender identity. These experiences have also affected their personal and financial well-being.
The Center for American Progress, along with an independent and nonpartisan research group NORC at the University of Chicago, designed a comprehensive survey to explore the lives, attitudes, and experiences of LGBTQ Americans (CNN, 2020). The study concluded that in fact, many LGBTQ people continue to face discrimination. This discrimination lead to a number of adverse effects including affecting their financial, mental, and physical well-being (CNN, 2020). The study also assessed whether LGBTQ people experience difficulties when attempting to access medical care or preventive screenings. The study concluded that 29 percent of respondents stated that they have had to postpone or have not tried getting medical care when sick because they could not afford it (CNN, 2020).
Over the course of the last decade LGBTQ people have made rapid progress in winning and securing equal rights (CNN, 2021). Despite all the progress made, the LGBTQ population continues to experience worse health outcomes (CNN, 2021). The LGBTQ members are at a higher risk for cancer, mental illnesses, and other disease, and are more likely to smoke, drink alcohol, use drugs, and engage in risk behaviors due to factors like low rates of health insurance coverage, high rates of stress due to systemic harassment and discrimination, and lack of cultural competency in the healthcare system (CNN, 2021).
In order to properly start reducing the health disparities between LGBTQ people and the heterosexual population, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services should establish a dedicated office of LGBTQ Health (CNN, 2021). Specifically, the office would lead in coordinating a consistent and scientifically driven response across HHS to LGBT health disparities (CNN, 2021). We should also appoint a panel of external and internal experts to advise their staff on how to have the proper approach when questioning someone on their sexual orientation and gender identity (CNN, 2021). Prioritizing cultural competency training for medical and nursing students is also a topic that needs to be touched on.
Cultural competency training and a detailed outline on strategies to tackle the LGBTQ health concerns will be outlines in a report. The importance of this report will be used in soliciting feedback from the LGBTQ community as the strategy is designed and implemented (CNN, 2021). As society moves towards a more comprehensive and supportive understanding of the LGBTQ community, the federal government needs to show its support. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services should take the lead by treating this community the same way it does other minority demographic groups within our society. Devoting our time and attention to this case can help and save the lives of millions.
# 2 The LGBTQ community is among minority groups that do not have adequate access to healthcare. Many societies globally have stereotypes and biases towards these people, which ultimately affect their access to healthcare services. Healthcare disparities also exist within each individual group in the LGBTQ community. This paper discusses the main approaches that can be used to address healthcare disparities in the LGBTQ community.
Cultural Competency and Provider Education
Cultural competency and provider education are crucial in addressing healthcare disparities within the LGBTQ community. Healthcare providers are tasked with providing personalized and evidence-based healthcare. Ideally, all healthcare practitioners should receive education focused on LGBTQ people’s health issues with a focus on trans and non-binary people. This training should include a general overview of sexual orientation and gender identity so as to promote respect for gender minorities. An important part of this education is teaching recognition of the correct names and pronouns that must be used with respect to the sexual orientations and gender identities of LGBTQ patients. Cultural competence in healthcare practice minimizes prejudice and bias that cause poor-quality service delivery (Yu et al., 2023). When healthcare providers are able to master these crucial concepts in LGBTQ healthcare, positive health outcomes will be reported. This will enhance healthcare for these minority groups and enhance positive health among them.
Inclusive Policies and Healthcare Access
Inclusive policies and healthcare access are vital for addressing healthcare disparities in the LGBTQ community. Laws that require healthcare centers and insurance providers to provide and pay for LGBTQ-targeted therapies, treatment, and check-ups should be enacted. This ensures that minority groups receive adequate healthcare that addresses their unique needs. Technically, improving general access to affordable health services can help to mitigate exclusion from such services. For example, transgender and non-binary populations are constantly experiencing challenges in accessing gender-affirming care. Health professionals are reluctant to listen to their needs because of preconceived ideas about their gender. Better policies go a long way in reducing the existing health disparities as they cater to the needs of marginalized groups (Prasad et al., 2023). Once healthcare providers make environments in health settings more queer and queer-friendly, then there shall be enhanced health for this marginalized group of people.
Research on LGBTQ Healthcare
Data collection and research play a pivotal role in addressing healthcare disparities within the LGBTQ community. The collection of data on sexual orientation and gender identity in health research means that health disparities that may be hidden will be detected. From this data, information about LGBTQ health can be identified. Areas that upcoming research on the LGBTQ community should focus on include social determinants of health, the prevalence of mental health issues, HIV/AIDS, and lack of access to gender transition services (Lampe et al., 2024). Understanding these specific areas of need makes it easier for those interested in policy-making and health services delivery to come up with focused measures that could help reduce inequality and enhance health. Furthermore, the inclusion of LGBTQ patients in these research projects ensures that they focus on the specific needs and treatment plans that are applicable to them. If the data collection is weak, attempts at enhancing healthcare for LGBTQ people may not be effective. To design policies and practices appropriate for LGBTQ people, it is compulsory to recruit the right participants in research studies.
Healthcare systems all over the world should ensure that the needs of minority groups are prioritized. Healthcare providers should be competent and aware of the needs of the LGBTQ community, healthcare policies should be inclusive of LGBTQ needs, and research on LGBTQ healthcare should be done appropriately.
# 3 Cuban-American Patients Who Immigrated at Different Times
Cuban-Americans who immigrated at different times often have unique healthcare experiences and expectations. For instance, those who came to the U.S. shortly after the Cuban Revolution in 1959 were often professionals or from wealthier backgrounds. They may have had an easier time adapting to the U.S. healthcare system, speak English more fluently, and might not hold onto as many traditional Cuban health practices. On the other hand, more recent immigrants may rely heavily on traditional remedies like herbal medicine and could struggle with language barriers when seeking care.
Generational differences also play a big role. Older patients might value traditional practices more, while younger Cuban-Americans who grew up in the U.S. may be more familiar with American healthcare norms. As nurses, recognizing these differences is very important. For example, taking the time to understand a patient’s history and how long they’ve been in the country can help shape a more personalized and respectful approach to their care (Giger & Haddad, 2021).
Making Hospital Life More Culture Specific for an Amish Client
Caring for an Amish client means making small but meaningful adjustments to create a welcoming environment. First and foremost, modesty is a big deal in Amish culture. Instead of standard hospital gowns the nurse can start by offering something more conservative or allowing them to wear their traditional clothing when appropriate can make them feel much more comfortable. Another important factor is technology. Since many Amish people are cautious about advanced medical tools, it’s crucial to explain why certain devices or treatments are necessary and to get their permission before proceeding.
Family is at the heart of Amish life, so allowing family members to be present and involved in decisions can go a long way in helping the patient feel supported. Spirituality is also a cornerstone of Amish culture, so making space for prayer or connecting them with their church leaders shows that their values are respected. These simple but thoughtful actions can help build trust and create a more positive healthcare experience (Nolt, 2016).
Reasons for Alcoholism in Irish-American Families
Alcoholism in Irish-American families is often influenced by both cultural and genetic factors. Alcohol has been a big part of Irish culture for centuries, often seen as a way to socialize or cope with life’s challenges. This normalization of drinking can lead to patterns of excessive alcohol use, which can easily pass down through generations. In many Irish-American families, alcohol is a staple at gatherings, celebrations, and even in moments of stress, which can create an environment where heavy drinking feels normal.
Genetics also play a role. Some studies suggest that individuals of Irish descent may have a genetic predisposition to alcoholism. While this doesn’t mean everyone with Irish heritage is at risk, when combined with cultural attitudes that encourage drinking, it can increase the likelihood of alcohol-related problems. Understanding these factors can help nurses approach the topic of alcohol use with empathy and offer more effective support.
# 4
Differences Affecting Cuban-American Patients Based on Immigration Timeframes
Cuban-American patients who immigrated at different times have different cultural, political, and socioeconomic backgrounds that affect their healthcare claims. Cuban refugees of the early 1959 revolution comprised middle and upper-class people escaping political persecution. Some of these patients arrived with professional working status, financial means, and literacy that helped them to assimilate quickly with related institutions in the United States, including healthcare. First-wave immigrants were generally anti-communist. Therefore, they had faith in the governmental healthcare systems. Their cultural ties to Cuba may be more nostalgic, focusing on maintaining traditional customs such as family-centered care, respecting elders, and relying on spiritual practices in healthcare.
Conversely, Cuban-Americans who immigrated during later waves, such as the Mariel Boatlift in 1980 or the Balseros (raft people) crisis of the 1990s, faced distinct challenges (Stephens, 2021). These groups were from lower socioeconomic status and had more struggling experiences with fewer resources and social support. Discrimination in Cuba and the US might have instilled confidence in healthcare practitioners and institutions. Most moved to America solely to look for jobs, so their health expectancies may also be likely baseline-cost oriented. Language challenges, migration trauma-related mental health issues, and health literacy disparities must be addressed by nurses to provide appropriate care.
Making Hospital Care Culture-Specific for Amish Clients
To provide culturally sensitive care to Amish patients, nurses must recognize the community’s emphasis on simplicity, community, and faith. The Amish avoid using most modern technologies in their daily lives, such as electricity and electronics, which also might influence their hospital experience. Nurses may begin by ensuring that medical equipment and care plans are non-intrusive. In this case, staff can offer manual beds and light to the Amish patients. Nurses should also offer clothes and privacy during interventions to helpless Amish individuals. Considering this concerning their type of decision-making, the nurses should try to include the family or the elders from the community in the decision-making regarding the treatment.
Amish patients often rely on natural remedies and traditional healing methods, which may need to be incorporated into their care when possible. Common practices such as these can be freely addressed between nurses, and more emphasis can be placed on the spirit of teamwork. Another factor is diet; preparing easy, human-like meals that do not contain ingredients like canned food matches their dietary meal options. Amish patients also require religious intervention. Encounters with preachers or other religious members can comfort patients admitted to the hospital (Anderson & Potts, 2020). Finally, information regarding medical conditions and treatments must be culturally appropriate and conveyed in simple words without medical terminology. Respecting these cultural beliefs helps nurses create trust and improve Amish patient health.
Etiological Reasons for Alcoholism in Irish-American Families
Alcoholism within Irish-American families can stem from both genetic and cultural factors, creating a complex etiological foundation. First, genetic predisposition plays a significant role. Irish people have greater genetic markers linked to alcohol metabolism and addiction. This tendency increases the danger of alcohol dependency, especially in alcohol-friendly situations. This sensitivity may make offspring of alcoholic parents alcoholics.
Second, cultural and historical influences significantly contribute to alcoholism in Irish-American families. Drinking is deeply rooted in Irish social culture, as drinking is almost synonymous with joy, companionship, and frequent solace (Mauger, 2021). Although most Irish immigrants became Americanized, the continued presence of pubs and social drinking made it easier to retain their traditions. Such normalization of binge drinking, therefore, means that excessive use of alcohol will be regular. This historical narrative of colonization, starvation, and forced relocation might have sown the seeds of generational stress-coping strategies such as alcohol dependence. Nurses treating Irish-American alcoholism must bear these genetic and cultural factors in mind and call for a more comprehensive, non-drug approach to alcoholism treatment that factors in issues of family roles, cultural history, and biochemical susceptibilities message.