Clinical Learning and LGBTQ+ Health: Summary of a LGBTQ+ Health Clinical Rotation

Abstract

Introduction People who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and people who identify as something else (LGBTQ+) experience barriers to health care including a lack of health care providers adequately prepared to care for them. The literature describing LGBTQ+-focused didactic learning activities has increased in recent years, however remains limited with respect to clinical learning experiences. This publication describes the development and implementation of a clinical rotation for Physician Assistant (PA) students focused on caring for LGBTQ+ patients. Methods A 4-week LGBTQ+ Health clinical rotation was developed for PA students through collaboration with multiple clinical sites. Students (n = 6) were surveyed before and after completion of the clinical rotation on their knowledge, comfort, and confidence in caring for LGBTQ+ patients and to identify learning priorities. Paired t tests were used to compare quantitative pre and post data. Two reviewers independently reviewed qualitative data. Results Improvement in students' knowledge, comfort, and confidence were statistically significant from prerotation to postrotation surveys. Student ratings on standard course evaluations showed positive ratings for all course elements. Qualitative analysis showed that all students identified learning more about trans-related health care as a learning priority. Discussion Clinical rotations focused on the care of LGBTQ+ patients are valuable learning experiences which can support increased student knowledge, comfort, and confidence. Clinically based educational interventions may be one strategy in addressing the health disparities experienced by LGBTQ+ people.