If you are lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans or gender diverse, intersex, queer or asexual (LGBTIQA+), you have the right to equality, fairness and dignity in your end of life and palliative care. Good care values and celebrates diversity and is committed to removing discrimination.
You can use end of life and palliative care services to support both you and your partner as you approach the end of your life. Care can be provided in hospital or in your own home. Appropriate end of life care affirms your individual identity and your life story, and includes respect for both you and your partner.
Some services display a “rainbow tick” or similar accreditation to show they follow inclusive practices designed to make LGBTIQA+ people feel safe and welcome. These services aim to improve the health and wellbeing of LGBTIQA+ people by providing care regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity or intersex status.
Advance care planning#
Advance care planning lets you document your preferences about the care you want to receive if you become unable to make decisions for yourself. It can include appointing a person to make those decisions on your behalf.
Think about who you want to take on this responsibility, then approach them to have the conversation. You will be trusting this person with important choices, so it should be someone you know very well and can speak to about sensitive issues. They should understand what matters to you and be able to act on your wishes, even when faced with opposition from clinicians or family members.
It will be their responsibility to make, as far as possible, the same medical treatment decisions you would make if you were able. Where they are legally recognized, advance care directives give you greater confidence that your treatment decisions will be respected, and help the person you appoint act on your behalf should you become too unwell to decide for yourself.
Clear and current advance care planning documents are especially important for LGBTIQA+ people. They can help protect your legal rights and your end of life care preferences, particularly if your family or friends are not aware of, or do not respect or acknowledge, your sexual orientation, gender identity, intersex status or relationships.
Your right to care free from discrimination#
As an LGBTIQA+ person you have the right to end of life and palliative care services free from discrimination and harassment.
If you have been discriminated against, the problem is not with you but with the attitudes and behavior of the people and society around you. If you experience discrimination, you can seek help from a human rights or equal opportunity body, or from an LGBTIQA+ support or advocacy service.
Key points#
- LGBTIQA+ people have the right to safe, respectful end of life and palliative care, in hospital or at home.
- Some services show accreditation, such as a rainbow tick, to signal inclusive practice.
- Advance care planning lets you record your preferences and appoint someone to make decisions for you.
- Clear, current planning documents are especially important if your wishes or relationships may not be recognized by others.
- You have the right to care free from discrimination and harassment, and can seek help if you experience it.
Where to get help#
Sources & further reading
For evidence-based global guidance on this topic, consult authoritative public-health bodies such as the World Health Organization (WHO), CDC, NHS, and ECDC.