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Published on: February 16, 2011
Openness between gay persons and health professionals
Annals of Internal Medicine
|July 1, 1980
Summary
Many homosexual individuals openly discuss their sexual orientation with healthcare providers, leading to higher satisfaction and better care. However, concerns about prejudice remain a significant issue for some patients.
Area of Science:
- Medical Sociology
- Public Health
- LGBTQ+ Health
Background:
- Open communication regarding sexual orientation is crucial for quality healthcare.
- Understanding factors influencing disclosure to health professionals is vital for LGBTQ+ individuals.
- Previous research indicates potential barriers to care for homosexual populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify factors that encourage homosexual individuals to be open about their sexual orientation with healthcare providers.
- To assess the impact of this openness on the quality of care received.
- To explore patient perceptions of healthcare provider attitudes towards homosexuality.
Main Methods:
- A questionnaire-based study was conducted.
- Data collected from 622 homosexual men and women.
- Survey distributed through Gay Community News.
Main Results:
- 49% of respondents explicitly disclosed their sexual orientation to their primary health professional.
- 11% assumed their provider knew, while only 7% would never disclose.
- Disclosure correlated with higher patient satisfaction and, for men, increased likelihood of venereal disease screening.
- 27% reported experiencing prejudice from a previous healthcare provider.
Conclusions:
- Openness about sexual orientation with healthcare providers is associated with improved patient satisfaction and targeted health screenings.
- Addressing healthcare provider prejudice is essential to ensure equitable and effective care for homosexual individuals.
- Further research should explore strategies to foster inclusive healthcare environments for the LGBTQ+ community.
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