Development and initial validation of a sexual and gender minority competency-based survey for health service professionals.

Sexual and gender minority (SGM) individuals endure a number of health disparities, such as higher rates of violence, mental health conditions, and medical concerns. These disparities are exacerbated by the fact that SGM individuals face stigmatizing health care provider and system-related experiences. The primary purpose of this study was to quantify health service providers' SGM health competency by developing a measure, namely the Health Care Competency Assessment Form-Sexual and Gender Minority Patients (HCAF-SGM). Further, we examined correlates of SGM health competency based on leading theories of prejudice, primarily the dual process model of prejudice and social identity theory. The study comprised two phases: item development and pilot testing, followed by a primary online survey administration with several health care professionals and training organizations (N = 155). Study findings supported a one-factor HCAF-SGM score, suggesting that health care providers view their competency regarding SGM individuals in a holistic manner, without differentiating between knowledge, attitude, and skill. The measure was found to be negatively associated with right-wing authoritarianism and positively correlated with specific social identities most salient to the topic of SGM health (i.e., health care professional and SGM). The HCAF-SGM shows promise as a reliable and valid assessment of perceived provider health care competency. Implications for SGM health-related measurement, clinical supervision, and training are discussed. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).

VItamin D supplementation in infants, children, and adolescents.

Vitamin D deficiency in children can have adverse health consequences, such as growth failure and rickets. In 2008,the American Academy of Pediatrics increased its recommended daily intake of vitamin D in infants, children, and adolescents to 400 IU. Infants who are breastfed and children and adolescents who consume less than 1 L of vitamin D-fortified milk per day will likely need supplementation to reach 400 IU of vitamin D per day. This recommendation is based on expert opinion and recent clinical trials measuring biomarkers of vitamin D status. It is also based on the precedent of preventing and treating rickets with 400 IU of vitamin D. In addition to dietary sources, exposure to ultraviolet B sunlight provides children and adults with additional vitamin D. Although the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends keeping infants out of direct sunlight, decreased sunlight exposure may increase children's risk of vitamin D deficiency. No randomized controlled trials assessing patient-oriented outcomes have been performed on universal vitamin D supplementation. However, vitamin D may reduce the risk of certain infections and chronic diseases. Physicians should help parents choose the appropriate vitamin D supplement for their child.

Providing Care for Transgender and Gender Diverse Youth.

Transgender and gender diverse youth (TGDY) experience modifiable health disparities and difficulty accessing the physical and mental health care systems. Providers and staff should understand the unique needs of this population and provide affirming spaces where these resilient young people can thrive. In addition to addressing social, setting, and system level barriers to access, providers should consider offering comprehensive gender care because this reduces barriers to medical services and can improve health outcomes. This article educates providers about TGDY, reviews the role of mental health care, and provides an overview of medical interventions for gender affirmation.