American journal of preventive medicine
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Experiences of discrimination and bias in healthcare contribute to health disparities for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer populations. To avoid discrimination, many go to great lengths to find healthcare providers who they trust and who are knowledgeable about their health needs. This study examines whether access to an affirming provider improves health outcomes for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer populations across a range of preventive health and chronic disease management outcomes. ⋯ Inclusive care is essential for reducing health disparities among lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer populations. Health systems can reduce disparities by expanding continuing education opportunities; adopting nondiscrimination policies for patients and employees; and ensuring that necessary care is covered by health insurance.
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The objectives of this study were to estimate the prevalence of sexually transmitted infections in women of reproductive age by disability type and examine the association between disability types, participant characteristics, and the prevalence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). ⋯ Women of reproductive age with disabilities have a higher prevalence of sexually transmitted infections. In addition to disability type, the odds of sexually transmitted infections varied by race/ethnicity, sexual orientation, and substance use.
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This study examines the association of incarceration history and health insurance coverage and coverage changes in the U.S. ⋯ People with an incarceration history had worse access to health insurance coverage. Targeted programs to improve health insurance coverage may reduce disparities associated with incarceration.
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This study compares traditional post-and-platform playgrounds with innovatively designed playgrounds to assess the degree to which design influences use and physical activity. Innovative playgrounds are defined as having (1) a variety of surface types; (2) naturalized and planted areas designed for play; (3) open-ended structures that do not dictate play sequences; (4) loose, movable equipment; and (5) not comprised solely of traditional post-and-platform structures. This study also examines how neighborhood contextual factors contribute to playground use and physical activity. ⋯ Playground characteristics that attract more users and are associated with more moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, such as design, size, and the number of unique features, should be integrated into future playground designs and renovations, with innovative designs prioritized for low-income neighborhoods.