LGBTQ eLearning module: What we found - Behavioural changes
The majority of participants (84%) stated that they were personally going to take steps towards inclusion and diversity in order to provide culturally safe healthcare to LGBTQ people with cancer. The top three themes (with representative quotes) were:
- Using inclusive language
“I will be more aware when talking to patients about the language that I am using … to be more inclusive of LGBTQ patients who might be in my care.”
- Asking which pronouns the LGBTQ person uses
“On a personal level, I will be more in tune to the use of pronouns and using them in my interactions with [LGBTQ] people. While I have always considered myself to be inclusive, the gender identity and pronouns will be high on my list to be aware of and use them in appropriate situations.”
- Changes to intake forms and other paperwork to be more inclusive
“I will be looking through the forms available within my clinical area to see what the options for more inclusivity are and, if they are unavailable, ask more inclusive questions, document them in the file, and acknowledge the lack of options available.”
- Kent Hildred, National Program Manager, Pride Training, ACON
Participants (85%) also suggested activities their workplace might conduct to increase behaviours that positively impact LGBTQ communities’ health outcomes. Changing intake forms to be more inclusive was the most common response (42%).
This demonstrates that even the smallest informed change may reduce barriers that impact on LGBTQ communities’ health care seeking and, ultimately, have the potential to achieve their optimal health and wellbeing.
“I would like to see our forms updated to include what terms the client would like used to refer to their chest area/breasts, their pronouns, and their gender identity. I think this would show we are a safe space and make it easier for me to keep my clients comfortable.”
