Explore Health Care and Civil Liberties: Join Our Engaging STS Program Lecture!

Even with ongoing changes in federal health care policies under President Donald Trump, the Affordable Care Act (ACA) still offers important protections for patients. The real challenge lies in translating these rights into practice within healthcare settings.

Anna Kirkland, a professor in women’s and gender studies, tackled this topic in a recent lecture at the University of Michigan. Her talk, part of an event series hosted by the Science, Technology, and Society Program, drew on insights from her new book, “Health Care Civil Rights: How Discrimination Law Fails Patients.” Kirkland’s focus was on the persistent health inequities faced by marginalized groups, especially transgender individuals.

“People from minoritized backgrounds often report negative experiences in healthcare,” Kirkland noted. “I aim to address how gender identity discrimination specifically affects trans and non-binary individuals.”

She emphasized small but impactful interactions in hospitals. Each moment, from how a receptionist greets a patient to what’s recorded in their medical chart, can create a sense of inclusion or exclusion. “Every detail matters. Proper recognition at multiple points can shape a patient’s healthcare experience,” she explained.

Kirkland acknowledged that, despite challenges to healthcare for trans individuals, key protections under the ACA are intact. “The ACA hasn’t been repealed. Judges have interpreted its provisions. So, amidst the rapid changes, the law still provides a safety net,” she stated.

Part of her talk addressed the need for systematic changes in hospitals. Under the previous administration, guidelines were established for documenting sexual orientation and gender identity in electronic medical records. “Capturing these details helps staff understand a patient’s identity and how to address them properly,” she said. This system aims to honor civil rights in patient care.

During the discussion, Kirkland noted that some hospitals are more proactive in adopting non-discrimination policies than others. Larger institutions often have dedicated teams working on these policies, while others may overlook their importance. “In some places, you might find a dedicated team addressing these issues, while others might brush it off,” she explained.

Audience reactions were mixed. Rackham student Amina Abdu expressed concern about the potential for misinterpretation of ACA policies. “The flexibility in policy gives too much power to those who may not prioritize our civil rights,” she said.

Similarly, LSA junior Maggie Christoffersen highlighted the uneven application of civil rights in healthcare. “It’s clear that the system is shifting, but it doesn’t ensure equal rights for everyone, especially regarding access to care for trans individuals,” she reflected.

Historically, healthcare rights have evolved dramatically over the years. The ACA brought significant changes, but many still face barriers. According to a recent survey, nearly 40% of transgender individuals reported avoiding healthcare due to fear of discrimination. This statistic underscores the need for ongoing dialogue and reform.

As Kirkland’s insights reveal, ensuring fair treatment in healthcare is not just about laws on paper. It requires genuine effort and understanding from every staff member at healthcare facilities. With continued advocacy and awareness, the hope is for a more inclusive healthcare system for all.

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