The Perceptions and Experiences Among Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, and Agender Patients of Quality of Care With Health Care Services

Abstract

Clinical Scenario: The lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning, intersex, agender (LGBTQIA+) community has a unique set of health care needs and experience barriers to services. Many providers assume these needs are similar to heterosexual counterparts. Investigating experiences and perceptions with health care and recommendations on how to improve care can provide insight for professionals. Clinical Question: What are the perceptions of quality of health care and experiences among the LGBTQIA+ patients? Summary of Key Findings: A search was performed for articles exploring perceptions and experiences of LGBTQIA+ patients with health care. Four articles were included. All were Level VI qualitative studies. All demonstrated a lack of cultural competency leading to poor experiences with providers. Common themes included: misgendering, stigmatization, and negative provider attitude leading to poor experiences. Experiences improved if providers used inclusive language, created welcoming environments, and had knowledge/experience about needs of LGBTQIA+ patients. Clinical Bottom Line: LGBTQIA+ patients felt providers lacked adequate knowledge to understand and care for their needs. Future research should include facts contributing to accessing health care services, solutions to these barriers, and increasing geographic areas. Strength of Recommendation: According to the Strength of Recommendation Taxonomy (SORT) scale, there is Level C evidence that LGBTQIA+ patients experience providers who are not adequately prepared to properly care for their unique needs.