" Expectation is Always that the Practitioner Might Not Be Okay with Queerness": Experiences of LGBTQ+ With the Healthcare System in Saskatchewan, Canada

Abstract

This project aimed to explore the experiences of perceived mistrust and stigma by the LGBTQ+ members while accessing healthcare services in Saskatchewan, Canada. In partnership with local organization, a community-based participatory research (CBPR) approach was employed and, semi structured descriptive interviews were conducted. Sixteen participants ranging from age 20-60 were recruited and interviewed. Inductive coding method with thematic data analysis was performed, and descriptive comprehensive results were produced. The LGBTQ+ community reported negative experiences within the context of four emerging themes: (a) perceived stigma and discrimination in healthcare settings, (b) practitioners' LGBTQ+-specific healthcare knowledge, (c) the need for LGBTQ+-specific cultural sensitivity and inclusion, and (d) a call for changes in healthcare policy. Each theme and its corresponding experiences serve as a baseline of information to demonstrate the need for improved access to safe healthcare and increased sustainable health for the LGBTQ+ community members. This calls for training and education, establishing cultural sensitivity, and mandating policy changes could improve the experiences of the LGBTQ+ community members.

Keywords: Health equity; LGBTQ+; cultural sensitivity; discrimination; gender minorities; minority health; stigma; trans health.