Question:
Has anyone been treated differently in the hospital....

I have a friend who had surgery and the hospital staff was really good to her. Then when her girlfriend came to visit and give her comfort all of a sudden some of the hospital staff changed. Some were great and continued to do an excellent job however, some completely changed and began to be brief in speaking with her, abrupt and quiet. She and I couldn't imagine a reason why they completely changed other than they found out my friend was gay (not like she announced it but it was obvious, her girlfriend held her hand, stroked her hair, gave her a kiss on the cheek, you know what spouses do to comfort their loved one). Now I am worried....Has anyone had any problems like that while they were in the hospital or doctor's office? I was just curious if anyone out there is/was worried about this too.....Thanks :)    — Paulette M. (posted on June 2, 2002)

June 2, 2002
You can't change the world. I know it hard too make people comfortable with people's life styles. Some times you have to ignore people who are rude like that. In a way it seems like they where being prejudice to your friend. I myself am not gay but I live in bayarea San fransico where I have allot friends who are. They fight the ignorance battles every day. Try going to a support group in your area to see if there is any thing you can do legally.
   — sheri B.

June 2, 2002
That's an awful story. I would not hesitate to write a letter to the administrator, CEO and Director of Nursing Services to explain the experience. In addition, I would suggest to them that they have the offenders take diversity and sensitivity training. This horrible behavior should not be allowed to continue. What a disgrace. Warmest regards,
   — Ann B.

June 6, 2002
I had surgery at Alvarado Hospital (the same place Carnie Wilson did) and the staff was amazingly sensitive to my partner and I. Sarah, my partner, never left me for a moment. They brought in another recliner so she could sleep next to me and spoke to her as if we were a couple (which, of course, we are!). We also had a wonderful gay nurse (who isn't there anymore), but his treatment of us was exactly the same as the other nurses; respectful, kind, and attentive. I agree that if someone has a hard time because of discrimination, that the Patient Advocates should know. The head nurse of the floor is the first place to complain and she will know the order of folks to complain to. Make SURE you have the person's name (the offender) and document what was said when. Knowing facts helps tremendously.
   — Barbara H.

June 7, 2002
Whoa! I just hate hearing stuff like that. My sister did exactly those things and nobody thought a thing of it. Discrimination, ESPECIALLY by medical personnel is outrageous. My heart goes out to anybody who gets treated that way.
   — merri B.