The Impact of Protected Characteristics on

Patient Care in Healthcare Settings

I
n the realm of healthcare, recognizing and addressing the diverse needs of patients is
essential for providing equitable and quality care. Therefore, protected characteristics,
which encompass a range of personal attributes, play a crucial role in shaping the patient
experience by vastly affecting it.

This responsibility is enshrined in law under the Equality Act 2010 (“the Act”) 1:
“The Act protects individuals from being treated unfairly as a result of any characteristics that
are protected under the legislation. The ‘protected characteristics’ are: age, disability, gender
reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race (including ethnic or
national origins, color or nationality), religion or belief (including lack of belief), sex or sexual
orientation.”

Like nearly in every aspect, gender considerations in healthcare are also multifaceted,
especially in areas with lack of awareness. Understanding the unique health concerns of men
and women is pivotal for effective care delivery. Moreover, Discrimination or insensitivity
toward patients due to their sexual orientation might result in deviations in healthcare
outcomes. Therefore, gender identity, in addition to biological disparities, plays an important
role, necessitating healthcare practitioners to implement inclusive policies that accept and
validate patients' distinct sexual orientations. This fosters trust and promotes open
communication between patients and healthcare professionals, ultimately enhancing the
quality of care. Also, adopting policies that prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation
promotes a healthcare system that prioritizes equality and inclusivity.

Secondly, age is a fundamental protected characteristic that influences healthcare interactions.

Different age groups have distinct healthcare needs, and healthcare professionals must be
attuned to these variations. For instance, elderly patients may require additional attention to
address age-related health issues, while pediatric patients may need specialized care tailored to
their developmental stages. The integration of age-appropriate care strategies ensures a holistic
approach to healthcare delivery, contributing to better health outcomes for patients across the
lifespan.
Furthermore, cultural competence is paramount in healthcare, especially in diverse societies.
Patients of different ethnic and racial backgrounds may have varied health viewpoints, practices,
and vulnerability to specific conditions. To provide optimal care, healthcare providers must be
adept at respecting and acknowledging the diversity within the patient population. Culturally

1 The Equality Act 2010:

https://www.mddus.com/advice-and-support/advice-library/equality-act-
2010#:~:text=The%20'protected%20characteristics'%20are%3A,)%2C%20sex%20or%20sexual%20orienta
tion.
responsive practices reduce health inequities, increase patient satisfaction, and improve the
overall effectiveness of healthcare interventions.

“You are not disabled; just differently abled.” We all have heard this but it is a harsh reality that
Individuals with disabilities may encounter specific challenges in accessing healthcare services.
Healthcare facilities must be designed to be accessible, and healthcare providers should receive
training to accommodate the diverse needs of patients with disabilities. By addressing physical
and communication barriers, healthcare providers empower patients with disabilities to actively
participate in their care, promoting autonomy and dignity.

It is undeniable that religious beliefs can influence healthcare decisions, treatment preferences,
and end-of-life care choices. By integrating spiritual care into healthcare practices, providers
acknowledge the holistic nature of individuals, addressing not only physical but also emotional
and spiritual needs. Healthcare providers should be cognizant of these factors, respecting and
accommodating patients' religious practices while delivering care. Sensitivity to religious
diversity contributes to a positive patient-centered approach.
In conclusion, protected characteristics significantly influence patient care in healthcare
settings. Recognizing and addressing the diverse needs associated with age, gender, race,
ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, and religion are essential for providing equitable and
inclusive healthcare. By promoting awareness and implementing strategies that consider these
protected characteristics, healthcare professionals can enhance the overall patient experience
and contribute to positive health outcomes for the unique needs of all individuals. Recognizing
diversity in healthcare is not only a legal and ethical requirement, but it is also a means of
developing a compassionate, patient-centered, and responsive healthcare system.

1 The Equality Act 2010:

https://www.mddus.com/advice-and-support/advice-library/equality-act-
2010#:~:text=The%20'protected%20characteristics'%20are%3A,)%2C%20sex%20or%20sexual%20orienta
tion.