(528) Discrimination Against Sexual Diversity in a Public Teaching Hospital in the Northeast of Brazil: The Perception of Medical Students

Abstract

Abstract Introduction In Brazil, situations of discrimination and violence experienced by the LGBTQIA+ community in health care services and educational institutions constitute programmatic vulnerability and have repercussions for their health-disease-care process. In the context of health education, topics related to sexual and gender minorities are not effectively explored, and it is not a mandatory part of the curriculum of medical schools. Objective To analyze the perception of medical students who identify as LGBTQIA+ about homophobia and transphobia. Methods Qualitative cross-sectional study. An online questionnaire was answered anonymously by LGBTQIA+ medical students. They are in the mandatory internship curriculum of Gynecology and Obstetrics in a public maternity school in northeastern Brazil. Responses were categorized, coded, analyzed, and interpreted using Bardin's content analysis method. Results Seven LGBTQIA+ medical students participated. Regarding sexual identity, 3 identified themselves as cisgender women, three as cis men, and one person as "questioning" of these five are homosexual, two bisexual, and one asexual. When asked about the qualification of health service professionals regarding LGBT+ people, six respondents commented on the lack of technical training of the medical team. A student believes that most physicians are knowledgeable about the topic and respect LGBT people. All interviewees have already witnessed, as victims or witnesses, situations of homophobia or transphobia. Three of the participants experienced circumstances that involved professionals providing care to patients. Among the actions mentioned to improve the qualification of professionals in serving the LGBT+ community, most participants suggested training,, and mandatory classes on the subject. Conclusions There was a significant perception of prejudice against the LGBTQIA+ population in transdisciplinary care and medical training. The solutions embrace the inclusion of topics on sexual and gender minorities in the curriculum of medical schools, as well as spaces and welcoming strategies for students who have experienced LGBTphobia. Disclosure No