Web-based LGBT cultural competency training intervention for oncologists: Pilot study results

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Health Disparities
• Medical Education

Background:

• Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) cancer patients face significant health disparities.
• These disparities may stem from a lack of culturally competent healthcare providers.
• A web-based training program was developed to address these specific needs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of a novel LGBT cultural competency training for oncologists.
• To assess the impact of the training on oncologists' knowledge, attitudes, and clinical practices concerning LGBT patients.

Main Methods:

• 44 oncologists from three Florida academic cancer centers participated.
• Participants completed the "Curriculum for Oncologists on LGBT populations to Optimize Relevance and Skills" (COLORS) training.
• Pre- and post-training measures assessed LGBT-related knowledge, attitudes, and clinical practices.

Main Results:

• 33 oncologists completed the training, showing significant improvements in knowledge, attitudes, and clinical practices.
• The COLORS training demonstrated high acceptability, with 82% rating it high quality.
• 97% of participants would recommend the training to colleagues.

Conclusions:

• The COLORS training is a feasible and acceptable intervention for oncologists.
• The training shows potential to enhance LGBT cultural competency among oncologists.
• Further research is needed to confirm its effectiveness in reducing cancer disparities for LGBT individuals.