India’s Medical Education faces criticism for ignoring Disability and Queer Health

A recent study has shed light on significant shortcomings in India’s medical education system, highlighting the near absence of disability and queer health representation in medical curricula.

Published in the Indian Journal of Medical Ethics, the study reviewed the curricula of 269 medical colleges across the country. Its findings reveal stark disparities:

Only 12% of medical colleges incorporate disability-related topics in their courses.
A mere 3% include discussions on queer health.
Experts warn that this gap can lead to a lack of empathy and understanding among future healthcare providers when treating patients from marginalized communities.

The study identifies several key challenges contributing to the underrepresentation:

• Faculty Shortages: Lack of trained educators proficient in disability and queer health topics.
• Prejudice and Stigma: Social biases against individuals with disabilities and LGBTQ+ identities.
• Inaccessible Infrastructure: Medical colleges and healthcare facilities often lack the physical and systemic infrastructure to support inclusivity.

To bridge these gaps, the study calls for a comprehensive overhaul of medical education in India, suggesting:

• Curriculum Integration: Including disability and queer health topics as mandatory components.
• Faculty Training: Equipping educators with resources and knowledge to teach these subjects effectively.
• Infrastructure Development: Ensuring healthcare facilities are accessible to all, irrespective of physical abilities or sexual orientation.

The findings have sparked a wave of criticism from healthcare activists and reform advocates, who are pressing the government and medical education authorities to take immediate corrective measures. The study’s revelations underscore the urgent need for inclusivity in medical education.