Exploration of the Patient Experiences of a University LGBTQ+ Community: A Preliminary Analysis

PURPOSE: This qualitative study aimed to explore the lived experiences of people from a university LGBTQ+ community to inform health professional training in the interprofessional education setting. METHODS: Focus groups and semi-structured interviews from the University of the Pacific LGBTQ+ community were conducted by the researchers. Participants were recruited through campus-wide notification and fliers. Focus groups were held virtually on Zoom. Participants were asked to de-identify any identifying information. Informed consent and basic demographic information were obtained electronically. Participants were asked to reflect on personal experiences of their interactions within the healthcare system. The focus groups consisted of open-ended questions addressing the participants’ positive and negative healthcare experiences and how they felt their healthcare providers could have improved. The recordings were transcribed and coded for preliminary analysis. RESULTS: Seven students, faculty and staff participated in this study. Several themes emerged from the focus group interviews: 1.) Patient inclusion in shared decision-making 2.) Avoiding stereotypes 3.) Need to educate on whole-person care 4.) The importance of empathy. CONCLUSION: This study provides valuable insight into the unique needs of the LGBTQ+ community. The results reinforce the need to educate healthcare profession students on aspects of LGBTQ+ health to ensure a patient-centered approach.